Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in New Hampshire

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re staring at a shutoff notice or deciding between power and groceries, act today. The steps and contacts below are New Hampshire–specific, with direct links and phone numbers you can use right now. This guide keeps the language simple, the steps clear, and the sources official.

---

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call your utility and set a same‑day payment plan under New Hampshire’s Winter Rules: ask for a hardship arrangement and, if needed, a medical protection note; see details below and ask for the customer assistance team. Use the numbers for Eversource, Liberty, Unitil, or NHEC found in the Quick Help Box. Read your rights under the state’s winter protections and medical rules in the state code and outreach pages at the state energy office. Eversource, Liberty Utilities, Unitil, NHEC. (puc.nh.gov)
• Book an urgent appointment with your local Community Action Agency to apply for LIHEAP fuel help and the Electric Assistance discount: say you have a shutoff notice or no‑heat emergency so they triage you faster; bring ID, income proof, and the notice. Find your county CAA from the state directory and call today. NH Community Action Agencies, Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP), Electric Assistance Program. (energy.nh.gov)
• If the utility won’t work with you, call the NH Department of Energy Consumer Services: ask for help mediating a payment plan or stopping a wrongful disconnection. Phone 1-800-852-3793 (Mon–Fri, 8:00–4:30). You can also file a complaint online. Consumer Services, PUC Consumer page, Winter Disconnection Rules. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• NH Department of Energy Consumer line: 1-800-852-3793 — help with complaints, payment plans, rules. Consumer Services, DOE Consumers, PUC Consumer page. (energy.nh.gov)
• 211 NH (utility help, shelters, referrals): dial 211 any time, or search online for “utility assistance.” 211 NH, HUD NH help, Agencies on 211. (211nh.org)
• Eversource NH customer service: 1-800-662-7764 — ask about New Start arrearage forgiveness and payment plans. Eversource, New Start info, NH town notice with New Start phone. (hudsonnh.gov)
• Liberty Utilities: Gas 1-800-833-4200; Electric 1-800-375-7413 — ask about discount gas rate and assistance. Liberty Contacts, Liberty Gas low‑income rate, Liberty Electric EAP page. (libertyutilities.com)
• Unitil customer service: 1-888-301-7700 — ask about discount gas heat rate and special arrangements. Unitil Contact, Unitil low‑income gas rate, Unitil residential discount rate. (unitil.com)

---

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in New Hampshire Today

The winter disconnection season has extra safeguards, and some protections apply year‑round. Use them fast and in the right order.

• Know your “winter period” rights: from November 15 through March 31, the utility cannot disconnect you if your balance is below specific dollar limits, and they must seek permission before cutting service to seniors 65+. Read the official state rule and consumer summary pages before you call. Winter Rules summary, Definition of winter period, Protection from Disconnection. (puc.nh.gov)
• Ask for a “financial hardship” plan: the rules say you can keep or restore service by paying 10% of the balance monthly during winter if you show hardship (like enrollment in LIHEAP/EAP/SNAP). Ask the rep to note “winter hardship arrangement” on your account. Payment arrangement rule, Hardship definition, CAA appointment for LIHEAP/EAP proof. (puc.nh.gov)
• If anyone in the home has a serious health condition, ask for a “medical emergency” protection: a doctor, APRN, PA, or mental health practitioner can certify this; you can start with an oral notice and have 15 days to send the written certification. Service should remain on if you also set a payment plan. Medical emergency rule, Medical disconnection steps, DOE Consumer help. (law.cornell.edu)
• Expect 2–8 business days’ personal notice before a winter shutoff: they must call or reach an adult at home; if they cannot, they need permission from the state and must show hardship details first. Winter notice requirements, PUC winter rules page, DOE Consumers. (law.cornell.edu)
• Document every call: write down the date, time, name, and what you asked for (hardship plan, medical note, payment schedule). If the rep refuses, ask for a supervisor, then call the DOE Consumer line to mediate a plan on your behalf the same business day. DOE Consumer Services, PUC Consumer, 211 NH. (energy.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: escalate in writing to the NH Department of Energy Consumer Services, contact New Hampshire Legal Assistance for advice on your rights, and ask your town’s welfare office for emergency help with the bill under RSA 165. NHLA contact, RSA 165 municipal welfare, PUC winter rules. (nhla.org)

---

The Main Programs That Lower Bills (and How to Apply Fast)

Electric Assistance Program (EAP) — monthly discount on electric bills

• What it is: statewide discount off your monthly bill (5%–86%) for 12 months; you renew each year. NH DOE EAP, PUC EAP page, NHEC EAP overview. (energy.nh.gov)
• Who qualifies: households at or under 60% of the New Hampshire State Median Income (SMI). 2025 examples posted by the Belknap‑Merrimack CAP show $47,604fora1‑personhouseholdand$62,252 for 2 people; always check the current figures when you apply. CAPBM EAP income 2025, DOE eligibility (SMI 60%), CAA directory. (capbm.org)
• How to apply: you apply through your county Community Action Agency; one intake visit can screen you for EAP, LIHEAP fuel, and Weatherization. CAA directory, EAP brochure, NHEC EAP. (energy.nh.gov)
• Timeline: Many CAAs complete non‑crisis applications in about 2–4 weeks; ask for “expedited” if you have a disconnect notice. SNHS timelines, CAPHR processing notes, DOE eligibility one‑visit screening. (mail.snhs.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask the CAA about the Neighbor Helping Neighbor fund and your utility’s arrearage programs (like Eversource New Start). If you’re with NHEC, ask for Project Care. NHN Fund, Eversource NH news mentioning New Start, Project Care. (nhnfund.org)

---

Fuel Assistance Program (FAP) — LIHEAP energy bill help for heat

• What it is: New Hampshire’s LIHEAP helps pay heat costs (any heat type — oil, propane, natural gas, electric, wood, kerosene, even when heat is in rent). Grants don’t have to be repaid. 2025 benefits range roughly $100–$2,177, with an average about $1,284. Figures vary with income, region, and fuel costs. NH DOE FAP, LIHEAP Clearinghouse NH profile 2025, State plan info. (energy.nh.gov)
• When to apply: priority households (elderly, disabled, kids under six) can pre‑apply after July 1; others after September 1; the main season is December 1–April 30. SNHS FAP timing, DOE release on opening date, CAPHR season note. (mail.snhs.org)
• Crisis timing: CAAs try to respond to a true no‑heat or shutoff emergency as soon as possible, often within 48 hours. Ask for “heating emergency” triage when you call. NHPR reporting, CAA practice (CAPHR), 211 NH. (nhpr.org)
• Processing time: non‑crisis files often complete in about 30 days; bring all documents to avoid delays. SNHS process, CAPHR timeline, DOE eligibility overview. (mail.snhs.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your town welfare office for emergency help under RSA 165, get a payment plan from your fuel vendor, and call 211 for same‑day referrals. RSA 165, Laconia Welfare example, 211 NH. (gc.nh.gov)

---

Gas Assistance Program (GAP) — discount for natural gas heating customers

• What it is: a winter discount for income‑eligible Liberty and Unitil gas heating customers. The exact discount structure differs by utility; the DOE describes a 45% winter discount, Unitil publishes a 45% discount on both distribution and supply Nov 1–Apr 30, while an older PUC page references a 60% discount on delivery. Call your gas utility to confirm your current benefit. DOE GAP page, Unitil Discount Rate, PUC GAP page. (energy.nh.gov)
• Eligibility: being on LIHEAP, EAP, SNAP, SSI, WIC, Section 8, APTD, or similar programs usually qualifies you. DOE GAP, Unitil rate explanation, Liberty RLIAP details. (energy.nh.gov)
• How to apply: if you get LIHEAP, utilities often auto‑enroll you; otherwise call Liberty at 1-800-833-4200 or Unitil at 1-888-301-7700. Liberty contact, Unitil contact, DOE GAP page. (libertyutilities.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask about a budget plan and arrearage options; if denied, call DOE Consumer Services to mediate. DOE Consumer Services, OCA “Get Help”, PUC Consumer. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Weatherization & Energy Efficiency — reduce the bill permanently

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): free energy upgrades for low‑income households (insulation, air sealing, safety fixes). Waiting lists are common; apply through your CAA. NH DOE WAP, WAP FAQ with 60% SMI, CAA directory. (energy.nh.gov)
• NHSaves Home Energy Assistance (income‑eligible): utilities pay 100% of weatherization and some equipment for qualifying households; start via your CAA. NHSaves HEA, Liberty income‑eligible programs, NHEC Home Energy Assistance. (nhsaves.com)
• Inflation Reduction Act rebates (coming online): the state has federal funds for home electrification and appliance rebates; the program design is still being set up; don’t buy expecting reimbursement until the portal opens. NH DOE HEAR program status, DOE Home Efficiency rebates page, NHSaves IRA FAQ. (energy.nh.gov)
• SAFETANK (heating oil tank repair/replacement help): income‑qualified homeowners can get up to about $3,300forabove‑groundtankreplacementor$2,500 for underground tank removal; watch for possible cap updates being considered. NHDES Safetank, FAP page notes SAFETANK, Legislative bill raising caps (context). (des.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask your utility about standard NHSaves rebates and 0% financing, and re‑apply for WAP/HEA if your income or household changes. NHSaves, NHEC efficiency, WAP. (nhsaves.com)

---

Arrearage Forgiveness & Charitable Help

• Eversource New Start: enroll to forgive past‑due balances in about 12 months while you keep up with a set monthly payment; apply online or call 1-844-273-7760. Eversource New Start, Town notice with New Start details, Eversource NH news referencing the program. (eversource.com)
• Neighbor Helping Neighbor (Eversource, Liberty, Unitil customers): small grants (often $200–$300) every two years for those who don’t qualify for federal aid; must apply through your CAA. NHN “Getting Help”, NHN FAQ with amounts, DOE resource list. (nhnfund.org)
• NHEC Project Care (co‑op members): one‑time grant in a 12‑month period to stop a pending disconnect or reconnect within 30 days. Call 1-800-698-2007. Project Care, NHEC Payment Programs, LIHEAP Clearinghouse NHEC. (nhec.com)
• Municipal Welfare (RSA 165): every city/town must help with basic needs like heat, power, and water for residents who cannot pay. Apply at your town’s welfare office; assistance is usually vendor‑paid vouchers, not cash. RSA 165 “Local Responsibility”, Merrimack Welfare example, Auburn Welfare note on liens. (gc.nh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: ask 211 NH to search church and nonprofit funds in your town, and call Catholic Charities NH Community Services to check for fuel or utility help. 211 NH, CCNH Community Services, CCNH “poverty & financial hardship” stats. (211nh.org)

---

Water and Sewer Help in New Hampshire

• Federal LIHWAP ended: New Hampshire’s Water Assistance Program funding expired March 31, 2024. If you see references online, they’re historical. For current help, use municipal programs or town welfare. NH DOE Water Assistance (closed), RSA 165 local welfare, DOE Consumers. (energy.nh.gov)
• City‑run hardship programs: some water/sewer departments offer discounts, one‑time credits, or rebates. Portsmouth offers a 25% annual bill discount for eligible households and a one‑time $300 hardship credit; they also run efficiency rebates for toilets and washers. Portsmouth water/sewer assistance, Portsmouth efficiency rebates, Portsmouth current water/sewer rates. (portsmouthnh.gov)
• Where to start if your city has no formal program: call your water/sewer billing office to ask for a payment plan, then apply at your town welfare for emergency help. Concord lists a utility billing line and offers phone payments; Nashua and Manchester publish billing contacts and installment options. Concord utility billing, Nashua sewer payments, Manchester Water Works customer info. (concordnh.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: request a written denial and call your town welfare office with the denial and your bill; if you hit roadblocks, ask DOE Consumer Services for mediation or 211 for other local aid. RSA 165, DOE Consumer Services, 211 NH. (gc.nh.gov)

---

Internet and Phone Savings That Free Up Money for Utilities

• Lifeline (federal): up to $9.25 per month off mobile or home internet/phone (higher on Tribal lands). Apply through the National Verifier; some NH providers participate. USAC Lifeline, NH DOE Lifeline page, FCC Lifeline facts. (usac.org)
• Why this matters now: the Supreme Court upheld the FCC’s authority to fund the Universal Service programs in June 2025, keeping Lifeline in place. Reuters report on USF decision, USAC Lifeline, FCC Lifeline. (reuters.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: try a low‑income plan from your carrier, ask your child’s school about sponsored hotspots, and re‑check Lifeline annually. USAC Lifeline, NH DOE Lifeline, OCA “Get Help”. (usac.org)

---

Quick Reference: Program Snapshot Table

EAP, LIHEAP, GAP, WAP, NHN. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Your Legal Protections in a Nutshell (Winter Rules)

PUC winter rules page, EN 1204.03, EN 1204.05. (puc.nh.gov)

---

Utility Contacts and Help Programs (NH)

Eversource phone, Liberty contacts, Unitil contact. (business.goportsmouthnh.com)

---

Community Action Agencies by Region (call to apply for EAP/LIHEAP/WAP)

CAA directory, SNHS office list, NHCAP. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Local Organizations, Churches, and Nonprofits That Often Help

• LISTEN Community Services (Upper Valley): “Heating Helpers” can fund minimum fuel deliveries or stop disconnections; call 603‑448‑4553. LISTEN, Heating Helpers, How LISTEN helps. (listencs.org)
• Catholic Charities NH — Community Services: statewide offices can help with utilities, fuel, and case management (no faith requirement). CCNH Community Services, CCNH FAQ/contacts, CCNH impact stats. (cc-nh.org)
• Salvation Army (local corps): many towns provide one‑time electric/fuel help; ask your local corps (Keene example listed by city). City of Keene utility assistance list, Keene page alt link, 211 NH. (keenenh.gov)
• SHARE Outreach (Milford, Amherst, Brookline, Mont Vernon): emergency financial help; co‑located with SNHS fuel intake. SHARE Outreach, SNHS fuel page, 211 NH. (sharenh.org)
• St. Vincent de Paul (local conferences): many chapters help with overdue utility bills (Exeter area example). SVDP Exeter info, 211 NH search, CCNH. (stmarynh.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 for the closest nonprofit with funds, ask your church’s benevolence fund, and request town welfare under RSA 165 for emergency vouchers. 211 NH, RSA 165, Laconia Welfare. (211nh.org)

---

Resources by Region (where to start locally)

• Manchester / Nashua / Southern Hillsborough: contact Southern NH Services for LIHEAP/EAP and SHARE Outreach if you’re in Milford area; ask Eversource about New Start or Liberty gas discounts. (mail.snhs.org)
• Seacoast / Rockingham–Strafford: call CAP HR (Rockingham) or CAP Strafford; if you’re a Portsmouth customer, check water/sewer assistance. (mail.snhs.org)
• Concord / Merrimack–Belknap: apply through CAPBM; call Unitil for gas discounts and Concord Utility Billing for payment options. (energy.nh.gov)
• Upper Valley / Grafton: apply with Tri‑County CAP; ask LISTEN Heating Helpers; Eversource and Liberty serve parts of this area. (energy.nh.gov)
• North Country / Coos & Carroll: start with Tri‑County CAP; call Unitil or Liberty if you have those utilities. (energy.nh.gov)
• Monadnock / Cheshire & Sullivan: apply at Southwestern Community Services; the City of Keene lists local utility help and contacts. (energy.nh.gov)

---

County‑Specific Variations Worth Noting

• EAP income thresholds: the dollar amounts that map to “60% SMI” update annually; some CAA sites post the newest numbers before the central state page. Always follow your CAA’s current chart when applying. CAPBM 2025 EAP income, DOE eligibility overview, CAA directory. (capbm.org)
• North Country fuel deliveries: in severe weather, deliveries can take longer; Tri‑County CAP prioritizes no‑heat emergencies. Call early when your tank hits ¼. FAP tips, Tri‑County CAP listing, 211 NH. (energy.nh.gov)
• Seacoast water bills: Portsmouth has formal discounts and credits; other towns may rely on case‑by‑case payment plans through billing offices and town welfare. Portsmouth programs, Portsmouth billing page, RSA 165. (portsmouthnh.gov)

---

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: use Lifeline to cut phone/internet bills and ask your CAA to mark any safety‑related needs; the DOE Consumer line can mediate with utilities respectfully if you face bias. For legal support, contact NH Legal Assistance or the NH Bar’s free LawLine. USAC Lifeline, DOE Consumer Services, NHLA. (usac.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: request a medical emergency certification to block shutoff, then set a payment plan; ask for large‑print applications or a phone/home interview at your CAA. Use 711/Relay for calls. Medical emergency rule, CAA directory, Relay NH (TDD/TTY via PUC page). (law.cornell.edu)
• Veteran single mothers: ask about VA and community resources plus local help from Liberty House in Manchester (food, clothing, case management) and CCNH; combine with LIHEAP/EAP. Liberty House, Liberty House community resources, CCNH Veteran Support. (libertyhousenh.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: the NH Refugee Program works with Ascentria and IINE; ask your resettlement caseworker to help schedule CAA appointments and gather documents. For language access, ask for an interpreter at DOE/CAA. NH Refugee Program, DOE Consumers, CAA directory. (dhhs.nh.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: if you or your child qualify for Tribal benefits, ask about the enhanced Lifeline ($34.25 on Tribal lands) and check if your housing authority can help with utility allowances; availability in NH is limited, but the Lifeline Tribal benefit can apply if you reside on qualifying Tribal lands. USAC Lifeline, FCC Lifeline, HUD NH. (usac.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: ask for a phone or home interview with your CAA and use mail‑in forms; plan fuel deliveries early (call when your tank hits ¼). Use 211 to find the closest agency day. CAA directory, FAP delivery tips, 211 NH. (energy.nh.gov)
• Single fathers: all programs in this guide are eligibility‑based, not gender‑based; follow the same steps and contacts. DOE Consumers, CAA directory, PUC winter rules. (energy.nh.gov)
• Language access: ask DOE/CAA for interpreter services; many agencies offer phone interpreters. For hearing access, use TTY/Relay NH 1‑800‑735‑2964. NH Refugee Program – language assistance, DOE Consumers, PUC site (Relay info). (dhhs.nh.gov)

---

Manchester Water Bill Help

If you’re a Manchester Water Works customer, call their billing office for payment options and direct‑debit enrollment; if denied or still short, apply at the city welfare office for an emergency voucher. Use 211 for after‑hours shelter and crisis referrals. Manchester Water Works customer info, RSA 165, 211 NH. (manchesternh.gov)

---

Portsmouth Water Bill Help

Ask the billing office for the Annual Assistance 25% discount or the $300 temporary credit if you had a recent financial hardship, and add efficiency rebates to cut future bills. If you still cannot pay, contact town welfare for a voucher. Portsmouth assistance, Portsmouth rebates, RSA 165. (portsmouthnh.gov)

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until after disconnection to ask for help: ask for a hardship plan and medical protection as soon as you get a notice, not after. PUC winter rules, EN 1204.05 notice timeline, DOE Consumers. (puc.nh.gov)
• Missing documents at your CAA appointment: bring ID, Social Security numbers, 30 days of income for all adults, your utility bill(s), lease/landlord form if heat is in rent, and the shutoff notice. SNHS document list, CAPHR checklist, DOE eligibility. (mail.snhs.org)
• Assuming water help still comes from federal funds: LIHWAP ended in 2024; use city programs and town welfare now. DOE water program closure, Portsmouth assistance, RSA 165. (energy.nh.gov)
• Not calling DOE Consumer Services when a rep says “no”: mediation works; they can pressure utilities to follow the rules. DOE Consumer Services, PUC Consumer page, OCA “Get Help”. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Reality Check

• Funding ebbs and flows: LIHEAP and discount programs depend on state/federal budgets; benefit sizes and start dates can change. Call your CAA to confirm current amounts. LIHEAP Clearinghouse NH 2025, DOE FAP, DOE EAP. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Billing changes can raise costs: rates may change mid‑year; watch for Eversource default supply and distribution changes and adjust your budget plan. Eversource NH news, Unitil rate filing, Liberty rate case settlement. (eversource.com)
• Town welfare may place a lien: if you own a home, some towns record a lien to recover assistance later. Ask before you accept help. Auburn Welfare note, RSA 165, Merrimack Welfare. (auburnnh.us)

---

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• First call: your utility’s credit/assistance line — ask for hardship plan and medical protection if applicable. Eversource, Liberty, Unitil. (libertyutilities.com)
• Second call: your county CAA — book LIHEAP/EAP/WAP in one appointment; ask for crisis triage if you have a shutoff notice. CAA directory, FAP, EAP. (energy.nh.gov)
• Backstop if blocked: DOE Consumer Services (1‑800‑852‑3793) for mediation. DOE complaint, PUC Consumer, OCA help. (energy.nh.gov)
• Extra funds: Neighbor Helping Neighbor (through CAA) or NHEC Project Care. NHN, NHN FAQ, Project Care. (nhnfund.org)
• Town welfare: for emergency vouchers under RSA 165; ask for utility/heat assistance guidelines. RSA 165, Laconia Welfare, NH Local Welfare Admins Association. (gc.nh.gov)

---

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

• Photo ID (driver’s license or other)
• Social Security numbers for all household members
• Income proof for last 30 days for every adult (pay stubs, benefit letters)
• Most recent utility bills (electric, gas, fuel, water/sewer)
• Shutoff/disconnect notice or low‑fuel reading photo if applicable
• Lease/landlord form if heat is included in rent (ask your CAA)
• Medical letter if asking for medical shutoff protection
• Proof of participation in SNAP/SSI/Medicaid/etc. (helps show hardship)

SNHS documentation, CAPHR landlord form note, DOE eligibility. (mail.snhs.org)

---

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Read the denial letter: it must say why — income, missing documents, or non‑residency. Ask for a fair hearing or review if facts were wrong. DOE eligibility, CAA directory, DOE Consumer line. (energy.nh.gov)
• Fix and reapply: many denials are for missing pay stubs or landlord forms. Bring the missing papers and reschedule. SNHS process, CAPHR process, 211 NH. (mail.snhs.org)
• Use a bridge plan: ask your utility for a short payment plan while you reapply; call DOE Consumer Services if the utility refuses. PUC winter rules, DOE Consumer Services, OCA Get Help. (puc.nh.gov)

---

“Why is this taking so long?” — Typical Timelines (be realistic)

• LIHEAP (non‑crisis): around 30 days once your file is complete and certified. SNHS processing time, CAPHR timeline, NHPR reporting. (mail.snhs.org)
• LIHEAP (crisis/no‑heat): ask for a 24–48 hour response; have your vendor info and tank level ready. NHPR, FAP page, 211 NH. (nhpr.org)
• EAP/GAP: can show on your bill the next cycle after enrollment; ask your utility to confirm the effective date. EAP, GAP, Unitil low‑income rate. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Frequently Asked Questions (New Hampshire–specific)

1. How do I get help today if I’m hours from shutoff: call your utility and ask for a winter hardship plan and medical protection if applicable, then call your CAA for LIHEAP/EAP and 211 for same‑day referrals. PUC winter rules, CAA directory, 211 NH. (puc.nh.gov)
2. Can the utility shut me off in winter: yes, but it’s harder; limits apply and they must reach you 2–8 business days beforehand or get permission. Seniors 65+ and hardship customers have added protections. EN 1204.03, EN 1204.05, PUC summary. (law.cornell.edu)
3. What if I just started a job and my income is higher now: you may still qualify for EAP/WAP at ≤60% SMI; bring 30 days of income proof. If you don’t qualify, ask about NHSaves income‑eligible weatherization and standard rebates. DOE eligibility, NHSaves HEA, NHSaves. (energy.nh.gov)
4. My heat is in my rent — can LIHEAP still help: often yes; the benefit can go to your landlord if you’re eligible and heat is not subsidized separately. DOE FAP, CAPHR details, SNHS FAP. (energy.nh.gov)
5. How much is the Electric Assistance discount: it ranges widely (about 5%–86%) based on income and family size; ask your CAA which tier you fall into. DOE EAP, PUC EAP, CAPBM 2025 income example. (energy.nh.gov)
6. Is there help with past‑due electric balances: ask for Eversource New Start, Unitil/Liberty plans, or Neighbor Helping Neighbor grants via your CAA. Eversource New Start, NHN, Unitil contact. (eversource.com)
7. What if my water bill is behind: apply for a payment plan with the city utility, check for local assistance (e.g., Portsmouth has discounts/credits), then use town welfare. Portsmouth assistance, Concord billing, RSA 165. (portsmouthnh.gov)
8. Can I get my case reviewed if I think DOE or my utility is wrong: yes; file a complaint with DOE Consumer Services and ask the Office of the Consumer Advocate for guidance. DOE complaint, OCA Get Help, PUC Consumer. (energy.nh.gov)
9. Can my town really help with utilities: yes; by law, every town must provide general assistance for basic needs (often via vouchers). Ask for the welfare officer at Town Hall. RSA 165, Laconia Welfare, Merrimack Welfare. (gc.nh.gov)
10. Where do I report a utility scam call: call your utility to verify the account, then report to the NH Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Hotline. DOE scam warning, Eversource scam info, AG Consumer Protection Hotline. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Tables You Can Use With Agencies

Document & Intake Pathway (who to call first)

PUC winter rules, CAA directory, DOE complaint. (puc.nh.gov)

Water/Sewer: sample city options

Portsmouth assistance, Concord billing, RSA 165. (portsmouthnh.gov)

---

Application Steps You Can Follow

• Call and hold a slot: book the earliest CAA appointment; say “shutoff notice” or “no‑heat” if that’s true.
• Build your packet: use the checklist, including 30 days’ income for all adults, and your notice.
• Ask for combined screening: have them check EAP, LIHEAP, WAP/NHSaves in one sitting.
• Track your case: write your intake worker’s name, and ask when the vendor credit will post.
• Keep paying something: even $20–$40 on current bills shows “good faith” during reviews.

CAA directory, DOE eligibility, FAP. (energy.nh.gov)

---

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta información se generó con herramientas de traducción de IA. Verifique los detalles por teléfono antes de aplicar.

• Pida un plan de pago y protección médica a su compañía: durante el invierno (15 de noviembre–31 de marzo) hay reglas especiales; llame a su empresa o al 1‑800‑852‑3793 para ayuda del estado. Reglas de invierno, Atención al consumidor DOE, 211 NH. (puc.nh.gov)
• Solicite LIHEAP (calefacción) y EAP (descuento eléctrico) con su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria: una cita sirve para varios programas. LIHEAP NH, EAP NH, Directorio de agencias. (energy.nh.gov)
• Para agua/alcantarillado: algunos municipios (ej. Portsmouth) tienen descuentos/ayudas; si no, solicite en la oficina de bienestar de su ciudad (RSA 165). Portsmouth agua/alcantarillado, RSA 165, DOE Consumidores. (portsmouthnh.gov)

---

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• New Hampshire Department of Energy — Consumers
• New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission — Consumer/Winter Rules
• NH Community Action Agencies directory
• LIHEAP Clearinghouse (NH profile)
• Office of the Consumer Advocate (NH) — Get Help
• 211 New Hampshire
• NHDES SAFETANK program

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 for general information and is not legal advice or a promise of eligibility. Program rules and funding change. Always confirm current availability, amounts, and deadlines directly with the program or your utility before applying. Use the official contacts linked throughout (state energy office, public utilities commission, community action agencies, and municipal welfare) for final guidance.

---

🏛️More New Hampshire Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Hampshire

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