Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

This field guide is built for fast action. Every section starts with the top move you should make. Keep your phone nearby. Bookmark or text yourself the links. If you get stuck, call the numbers provided and say you’re a single mom asking for utility help.

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If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Stop a shutoff today: Call your electric or gas company and ask for a “deferred payment arrangement” and to be coded for the Winter Termination Program if eligible, then immediately apply for LIHEAP/USF using the state’s one‑stop portal. Use the utility’s shutoff line on your bill, or call the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) Customer Assistance line at 1-800-624-0241 for help, and submit your application at DCAid (energy help portal), read the NJBPU Assistance Programs overview, and keep the Utility Customer Bill of Rights handy. (nj.gov)
• Use medical protections if anyone in your home relies on electric‑powered medical equipment: Ask your utility to apply “medical certification” under Linda’s Law for a 90‑day no‑shutoff hold, then submit the doctor’s note as instructed. Call NJBPU Customer Assistance if the utility refuses, review the administrative rule on medical emergencies, and read the Governor’s Linda’s Law announcement for what counts as life‑sustaining equipment. (nj.gov)
• If service is already off: Call your utility and request reconnection with proof you applied for USF/LIHEAP/PAGE; be ready to make a down payment of up to 25% of the balance if required. Then file a complaint with NJBPU if reconnection is denied, apply through DCAid at once, and read the NJBPU reconnection guidance that allows restoration based on your assistance application. (nj.gov)

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Quick Help Box – Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• NJBPU Customer Assistance hotline: 1-800-624-0241 — Use this to mediate with your utility, read how to file a complaint, and keep the Customer Bill of Rights open while you call. (nj.gov)
• NJ Utility Assistance (LIHEAP/USF) hotline: 1-800-510-3102 — Ask where to apply in person, then apply at DCAid and review the LIHEAP page for documents and local agencies. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
• NJ 211 (24/7 live help): Dial 2-1-1 or 1-877-652-1148 — Chat with a specialist via NJ 211 Get Help, review Home Energy Assistance info, and search Other utility programs. (nj211.org)
• Legal backup if your shutoff dispute is urgent: Call Legal Services of New Jersey Hotline 1-888-LSNJ-LAW for advice on emergencies and utility shutoffs, and keep LSNJ’s utilities help page bookmarked. (lsnj.org)
• Veterans and military families: Call NJ Veterans Benefits Hotline 1-888-8NJ‑VETS for resource navigation, check DMAVA Benefits/Resources, and see Frequently asked veterans questions. (nj.gov)

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How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in New Jersey Today

Do this first: Call your utility’s collections line and ask for a “deferred payment arrangement” (DPA) you can afford, and to be screened for protection programs. Next, open the state application portal, apply, and save your confirmation number. Use DCAid to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Universal Service Fund (USF), read the NJBPU Utility Assistance Programs page for protections like reconnection with proof of application, and keep the Customer Bill of Rights in front of you while negotiating. Expect 10–15 business days for non‑crisis decisions when your documents are complete; ask for a note in your account showing “pending assistance.” (nj.gov)

Know your seasonal protections: New Jersey’s Winter Termination Program blocks shutoffs from November 15 to March 15 for eligible households, including those on LIHEAP, USF, TANF, SSI, PAAD, GA, Lifeline, or facing hardship beyond their control. During summer 2025, NJ also ran a Summer Termination Program (July 1–September 30) for protected electric customers and suspended reconnection fees; ask your utility what protections apply now and request a 24‑month plan if offered. Read WTP details at DCA, the BPU Residential Assistance page, and the BPU Assistance Programs page that explains WTP categories and summer protections. (nj.gov)

Use medical protections: If someone in your home uses electric‑powered medical equipment, request a medical certification hold under Linda’s Law for 90 days (extendable for good cause). Bring a doctor’s note as required by N.J.A.C. 14:3‑3A.2, and call NJBPU Customer Assistance if the utility doesn’t honor it. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with NJBPU, contact LSNJ’s hotline for legal help, and ask NJ 211 to help you find a charity grant while your state application is pending through NJ 211 Get Help. (nj.gov)

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The Big Four Programs Single Moms Use Most in New Jersey

Start here: Apply once through the state portal and you’ll be screened for multiple programs. Use DCAid to apply for LIHEAP (energy bill help), USF (monthly electric/gas credits), and Weatherization Assistance (efficiency upgrades), then add PAGE (Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric) if you still need help. Check the LIHEAP program page for local agencies, and review NJBPU’s program summaries for eligibility and benefits. (nj.gov)

Fast Snapshot: 2025 New Jersey Utility Help

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

Do this first: Submit your LIHEAP application online with documents ready, and ask for crisis help if you have a shutoff notice. Apply through DCAid, read DCA’s LIHEAP page for local agency addresses, and check benefit ranges and funding in the federal LIHEAP Clearinghouse profile for NJ. For the 2025 program year, typical benefits ranged from $118–$1,278 with up to $800 for winter crisis, subject to funding. (nj.gov)

Eligibility basics: Eligibility uses 60% of State Median Income (SMI). For FY 2025, DCA listed annual SMI limits such as $92,108forafamilyoffourand$77,370 for three. Confirm with DCA’s income limits notice, find local agencies on DCA’s directory list, and call 1‑800‑510‑3102 to schedule in‑person help. (nj.gov)

Timeline and tips: LIHEAP typically accepts applications October 1 through June 30, with crisis add‑ons during deep winter. DCA’s portal noted LIHEAP 2025 closed with next season starting October 1, 2025; if closed, still apply for USF now. Check the portal’s status updates, call the hotline 1‑800‑510‑3102, and ask your local agency about walk‑in “LIHEAP days” like those posted by NORWESCAP Energy Assistance. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Layer USF and PAGE after LIHEAP and ask your utility for a 12–24 month plan. Read NJBPU’s program list, call NJ 211 to locate charity funds, and contact LSNJ if a denial seems wrong. (nj.gov)

USF (Universal Service Fund) + Fresh Start

Apply as soon as you can: USF gives monthly credits to lower your electric/gas costs and can pair with Fresh Start to forgive arrears over 12 months while you pay your current bill on time. Apply via DCAid, review USF rules and Fresh Start, and keep DCA’s income limits press release for the 60% SMI thresholds used in FY 2025. (nj.gov)

Benefit update: On June 18, 2025, NJBPU approved USF improvements effective October 1, 2025: raising the minimum monthly credit from $5to$20 and the maximum combined electric+gas credit from $180to$200, along with enrollment outreach requirements for utilities. See NJBPU’s USF enhancement news, confirm details on the BPU newsroom page, and call 1‑800‑624‑0241 if your credits don’t reflect the new caps after they take effect. (nj.gov)

Fresh Start basics: If you enroll in USF and have $60+ in arrears, your utility should auto‑enroll you in Fresh Start; each month you pay only the current bill, one‑twelfth of your prior balance is forgiven, with some utilities forgiving 25% quarterly. Read BPU’s program details, keep the Residential Assistance page open, and call the BPU if your Fresh Start isn’t applied after you qualify. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Recheck your proof of income and usage and ask your utility to re‑run your USF benefit. Use the DCAid portal to upload missing documents, ask NJ 211 for in‑person help via NJ 211 Get Help, and escalate to NJBPU Customer Assistance if your utility isn’t cooperating. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

PAGE (Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric)

Use PAGE when you’re over LIHEAP limits or still behind: PAGE provides one‑time grants to reduce overdue electric/gas balances, help restore service, or cover reconnection fees. Start at SHARES Nation, review PAGE notes on NJBPU’s program list, and check NJ 211 for current caps and intake status; in recent guidance, grants have been up to $700 per utility per year, subject to funding. (nj.gov)

Tip: Many PAGE/SMART grants now run through SHARES. If you were denied for USF/LIHEAP or need extra help, ask about SHARES Energy Assistance and SMART Utility Assistance. Visit SHARES Nation, check your utility’s PSE&G assistance page, and call 1‑866‑657‑4273 to see which program you can use. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility to set a longer DPA so your PAGE application can go through. Call NJBPU if reconnection is blocked, and ask NJ 211 to search nearby charities that pay last‑dollar utility grants in your county. (nj.gov)

Comfort Partners (No‑cost energy upgrades)

Enroll to cut bills permanently: Comfort Partners brings a free energy assessment and cost‑effective measures like insulation, air sealing, and appliance replacement to income‑eligible households. Apply via NJ Clean Energy’s Comfort Partners page, ask about eligibility based on benefits or ≤250% FPL, and call 1‑866‑378‑4345 to get on the list. BPU’s assistance overview also explains how it coordinates with USF. (njcleanenergy.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re in an area served by Rockland, PSE&G, or another utility with their own Comfort Partners intake, ask your utility’s Comfort Partners contact or the Rockland Electric page to help move your referral along. (nj.pseg.com)

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Extra Savings You Should Know About

Residential Energy Assistance Payment (REAP) bill credits: Summer 2025 brought automatic REAP credits for eligible low‑income households already identified by utilities. BPU’s Assistance page states seven $25credits($175 total) applied automatically starting August 2025, while an earlier press release referenced six $25credits($150). Check your bill and call your utility or BPU to confirm how many credits you’ll receive this season. See BPU Assistance Programs – REAP, read the June 18, 2025 BPU release, and contact NJBPU if credits aren’t appearing. (nj.gov)

Community solar discounts with consolidated billing: New Jersey’s Community Solar Energy Program guarantees at least 15% savings on the portion of your bill covered by community solar credits, with consolidated billing now live at all four utilities (savings and charges on one bill). Use the NJ Community Solar page, review BPU’s April 23, 2025 expansion news, and look up projects via the Project Finder to subscribe. (nj.gov)

Lifeline Utility Assistance (for seniors/disabled): If you’re a single mom with a disability or caring for a parent on PAAD/SSI, check Lifeline’s $225 annual utility credit eligibility through NJDoAS/NJSAVE, read DHS Lifeline details, and call 1‑800‑792‑9745 for help. Lifeline is tied to PAAD income limits. (nj.gov)

Phone and internet: The federal Lifeline program still offers up to $9.25 per month off phone or internet for low‑income households. The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024 due to lack of funding; check the FCC ACP page for warnings about scams and talk to your provider about low‑income plans. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about budget billing or extended payment plans announced in 2025 to smooth peak bills, and call NJBPU to resolve disputes. For community solar issues, use the Community Solar Complaint Form to fix provider problems. (nj.gov)

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Current Eligibility, Deadlines, and Amounts You Can Expect

USF/LIHEAP Income Limits (FY 2025): For FY 2025, DCA listed monthly SMI limits such as $7,676/monthforafamilyoffourand$6,448/month for a family of three. Confirm with DCA’s Nov. 18, 2024 notice, apply through DCAid, and call 1‑800‑510‑3102 if you need a paper application or a home visit. (nj.gov)

Typical LIHEAP benefits/uses: New Jersey’s FY 2025 LIHEAP profile shows $118–$1,278 for heating and cooling and up to $800forwintercrisis,withweatherizationupto$13,497 depending on need and funding. Read the ACF LIHEAP Clearinghouse profile, keep DCA’s LIHEAP page open for local submission addresses, and always “call to confirm current availability before applying.” (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

USF benefit changes (effective 10/1/2025): Minimum monthly credit increases to $20andmaximumcombinedcreditto$200 across gas+electric. See BPU’s June 18, 2025 release, track state updates on BPU’s site, and ask your utility to re‑calculate your credit after October 1, 2025. (nj.gov)

Seasonal protections: WTP runs November 15–March 15; you must call your utility to request protection and make good‑faith payments. Use DCA’s WTP page, the NJBPU residential assistance page, and the NJBPU complaints page if the utility disagrees with your eligibility. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your income is slightly over program limits, try PAGE via SHARES Nation, ask NJ 211 to find local bridge grants using Get Help, and request a 24‑month payment plan from your utility. (nj.gov)

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Required Documents and How to Apply Without Delays

Action steps: Gather documents before you start. Submit one clean application with all pages and readable images.

• Core documents: Government ID, proof of New Jersey address, the past 4 weeks of income for each earner, your most recent utility bills, and proof of household members. Review the DCA LIHEAP page for the full checklist, call 1‑800‑510‑3102 for help, and ask your local agency listed on DCA’s directory about drop‑off. (nj.gov)
• SSN rules: LIHEAP requires at least one household member with a Social Security number, but USF and PAGE do not require an SSN; if anyone is undocumented, ask for alternate ID options. See NJBPU’s program page, apply through DCAid, and call the hotline if you need a home visit. (nj.gov)
• Submission: Apply online at DCAid, upload documents, or bring them to the local agency from DCA’s directory list. If the portal shows “incomplete,” correct it within 7 days, and call 1‑800‑510‑3102 to note your correction. Read DCA FAQs to avoid common errors. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the agency to accept your documents by email or fax as listed on DCA’s LIHEAP page, request help from NJ 211, and if delays risk shutoff, call NJBPU Customer Assistance to intervene with the utility. (nj.gov)

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Reality Check – What Trips People Up

Funding windows and wait times: LIHEAP closes each June then reopens in October; USF runs year‑round but has seasonal deadlines. DCA’s portal noted LIHEAP 2025 closed with USF applications accepted through mid‑August 2025. Check DCAid announcements, confirm income rules in DCA’s notices, and expect longer decisions during peak months. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

Bills may still go up: 2025 saw summer cost smoothing and temporary credits from NJ utilities and BPU to cushion higher supply rates. Read BPU relief updates, your utility’s assistance page, and consider community solar for guaranteed discounts. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied or wait times stretch past 30 days, file a grievance with your local agency, call NJBPU for a utility hold, and ask LSNJ to check your rights. (nj.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing documents or unreadable uploads: Always include complete pay stubs for the last 4 weeks and all pages of the bill. Use the DCA checklist, apply on DCAid, and keep NJ 211’s help page close as a backup. (nj.gov)
• Not calling the utility first: Utilities must offer reasonable payment plans; most will set up DPAs and code your account when you show a pending application. Keep NJBPU complaints, the Bill of Rights, and your utility’s assistance page on hand. (nj.gov)
• Assuming ACP still discounts internet: The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024; don’t share personal info on websites claiming new ACP enrollments. Check the FCC ACP page, enroll in FCC Lifeline, and ask your ISP about low‑income plans. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you made a mistake, fix it fast in DCAid, then email or call your local agency from the DCA directory to note the correction and protect your place in line. (nj.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist You Can Screenshot

• Government ID: NJ driver’s license or other ID for you. Use DCA LIHEAP page for doc list, submit on DCAid, and ask NJ 211 if you need in‑person help. (nj.gov)
• Proof of address: Lease, recent utility bill, or municipal letter. Keep the Customer Bill of Rights in your file, bookmark NJBPU assistance, and store scans in your phone. (nj.gov)
• Income proof: Last 4 weeks for each earner (pay stubs or statement). Check FY 2025 income limits, upload via DCAid, and follow up by calling 1‑800‑510‑3102. (nj.gov)
• Utility bills: Latest electric, gas, and water bills; include shutoff notices. Use NJBPU complaints if the utility won’t hold, and ask LSNJ for help with disputes. (nj.gov)
• Special items: Medical certification if needed and documentation of child or disability benefits. See Linda’s Law, call Division of Disability Services at 1‑888‑285‑3036 for supports, and ask NJSAVE about Lifeline if a senior or disabled adult is in the home. (nj.gov)

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If Your Application Gets Denied

First moves: Read the denial letter closely. Many denials are for missing documents or income calculation errors. Re‑submit exactly what the letter lists and email or upload within the appeal window.

• Ask for a supervisor review: Call your local agency from the DCA directory list, update your DCAid record, and request a case conference call with you, the agency, and your utility. (nj.gov)
• Protect your service while appealing: Show the denial and re‑submission to your utility and ask for a DPA extension while you appeal. Keep NJBPU complaints page open if the utility won’t work with you, and ask LSNJ for appeal help. (nj.gov)
• Escalate: If you feel income was misread or a rule was applied incorrectly, file a complaint at NJBPU and request mediation, and call NJ 211 for one‑time charity funds while your appeal is pending. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for help from a local legal aid via LSNJ, and document every call and upload. If you’ve been shut off, request reconnection based on proof of your fresh application as noted on the BPU Assistance Programs page. (nj.gov)

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Water, Sewer, and Internet – Specific Help

New Jersey American Water (statewide): The H2O Help to Others Program, administered by SHARES, offers grants up to $500 and discounts up to 60% on service charges depending on income. See NJ American Water H2O, read recent company press updates, and apply through SHARES Nation or call 1‑877‑NJAWH2O. (amwater.com)

Veolia (various towns): Ask about Veolia Cares, payment plans, and PromisePay‑style flexible options. Use the company page for enrollment and contact their local customer service. (mywater.veolia.us)

Newark Water & Sewer: If you’re behind, enroll in Newark PromisePay payment plans for interest‑free options that prevent shutoff when you stay current. Pay by phone at 1‑888‑877‑0450 from the payments page and keep Newark Water FAQ for service contacts. (waterandsewer.newarknj.gov)

Jersey City MUA: For water/sewer billing or arrangements, call JCMUA at 201‑432‑1150, review residential resources, and use Veolia’s online billing link from the main page. (jcmua.com)

Internet: With ACP ended, ask your provider about low‑income plans and apply for FCC Lifeline to reduce phone or broadband costs. Read the FCC ACP end notice, and don’t enter personal data into sites claiming new ACP enrollments. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NJ 211 to search for municipality‑level aid using Get Help, and request a written payment plan from your water/sewer agency while your grant or plan is set up. (nj211.org)

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Utility‑By‑Utility Contact Tips

• PSE&G: For payment arrangements call 1‑800‑357‑2262, see PSE&G payment help, and use PSE&G contact page for hours and TTY 711. (nj.pseg.com)
• JCP&L: Call 1‑800‑962‑0383, see JCP&L assistance, and ask about Comfort Partners via 1‑800‑915‑8309. (firstenergycorp.com)
• Atlantic City Electric: Call 1‑800‑642‑3780 and request a plan or apply for assistance; use ACE payment arrangements and then pursue state help at DCAid. (secure.atlanticcityelectric.com)
• New Jersey Natural Gas: Call 1‑800‑221‑0051 for energy assistance appointments, see NJNG contact, and ask an energy assistance specialist about in‑person events. (njng.com)
• South Jersey Gas: Call 1‑888‑766‑9900 to set up a payment arrangement and check SJG utility bill assistance for FY 2024–2025 income guides. (southjerseygas.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to speak with a supervisor and note your case number. Then call NJBPU Customer Assistance at 1‑800‑624‑0241 to mediate. (nj.gov)

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Resources by Region

North Jersey (Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Warren): Use DCA’s agency directory to find your county LIHEAP office, check NORWESCAP Energy Assistance for Hunterdon/Somerset/Sussex/Warren, and call NJ 211 for nearby energy events. (nj.gov)

Central Jersey (Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Somerset, Union): Start with the county agency from the DCA list, contact NJNG if you’re in NJNG territory, and call NJBPU to resolve payment plans. (njng.com)

South Jersey (Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Ocean, Salem): Use your county contact on DCA’s directory, ask South Jersey Gas for payment options, and call NJ American Water H2O for water grants. (southjerseygas.com)

City‑specific water help examples:

• Newark Water Bill Help: Enroll in PromisePay plans, use Newark payments, and call 973‑733‑6370 for billing. (waterandsewer.newarknj.gov)
• Jersey City Water/Sewer: Call JCMUA 201‑432‑1150, pay through the main site, and ask about adjustments on residential resources. (jcmua.com)
• Camden County Sewer: Check Camden County MUA billing info, call 1‑800‑966‑7995 to pay, and use NJ 211 Other Utility Programs for water help. (ccmua.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Attend a Utility Assistance Day when offered by NJBPU, or ask your county social services about Work First New Jersey emergency aid at WFNJ Apply. (nj.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

NJ 211: Start with NJ 211 Get Help for a 24/7 live specialist who can find utility funds, churches with one‑time grants, and emergency shelters. Keep Other Utility Programs and the Home Energy Assistance hotline info open while you call. (nj211.org)

Salvation Army – local corps: Many corps offer emergency utility help when funds are available. Find your nearest site on the Salvation Army NJ Division, use Receive Assistance to locate your corps, and call the number listed for appointments. Funding varies by location. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

Catholic Charities (Diocese of Camden example): If you’re an Atlantic City Electric customer, Catholic Charities South Jersey has limited grants (often funded by utility partners). Call the office in your county and also apply for state programs through DCAid. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)

Legal help: For shutoff disputes and rights, contact Legal Services of New Jersey at 1‑888‑LSNJ‑LAW and review their Utilities guide. Also keep NJBPU complaints ready if your utility won’t cooperate. (lsnj.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask NJ 211 to search congregations like St. Vincent de Paul and community foundations via Get Help, and request a written 60‑day plan from your utility while you line up aid. (nj211.org)

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Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Call NJ 211 to find LGBTQ‑affirming financial support, keep NJBPU’s assistance page up for program rules, and ask local groups like Garden State Equality for referrals to emergency funds and affirming clinics that can verify medical certifications. (nj.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask Division of Disability Services at 1‑888‑285‑3036 to help you navigate benefits, use DCAid to apply for LIHEAP/USF, and request reasonable accommodations, large‑print applications, or home visits through your local agency. (nj.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Contact the NJ Veterans Benefits Hotline at 1‑888‑8NJ‑VETS for emergency assistance leads, apply via DCAid for energy aid, and ask NJBPU Customer Assistance to mediate any shutoff risk while your VA award or state grant is pending. (nj.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for USF and PAGE without an SSN; LIHEAP requires at least one household member with an SSN. Use DCAid, call 1‑800‑510‑3102 for a multilingual agent, and connect with the Office of New Americans for language access and referrals. (nj.gov)

Tribal‑specific notes: FCC’s increased Tribal Lifeline benefit applies on qualifying Tribal lands; most New Jersey residents won’t qualify for the Tribal tier, but standard FCC Lifeline still helps. Pair Lifeline with USF and LIHEAP to reduce bills and connect with any local Indigenous organizations for advocacy letters if medical protections are needed. (fcc.gov)

Rural single moms: If you’re far from agency offices, ask for a home visit via the LIHEAP hotline, enroll in Comfort Partners for in‑home upgrades, and use NJ 211 to find mobile intake events. (njcleanenergy.com)

Single fathers: The same rules and protections apply. Use DCAid for LIHEAP/USF, keep NJBPU complaints ready if a utility refuses a plan, and call NJ 211 for a local intake appointment. (nj.gov)

Language access and accessibility: Click “Translate” on DCAid, ask the LIHEAP hotline for language line services, and request large‑print applications or TTY/711 through your utility’s contact page. (nj.pseg.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Office of New Americans to help with language access letters, call LSNJ if you encounter discrimination, and loop in NJBPU to enforce your rights. (nj.gov)

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County‑Level Differences You’ll Notice

Appointment backlogs and drop‑boxes: Some county agencies (for example, NORWESCAP service areas) hold special “LIHEAP Days” near deadlines and use drop‑boxes for documents. Watch NORWESCAP events, confirm your county on DCA’s directory, and call 1‑800‑510‑3102 to ask about drop‑off hours. (norwescap.org)

Utility practices: Some utilities now offer 24‑month plans or summer relief holds. Read BPU’s June 2025 relief update, confirm details on your utility’s assistance page, and ask for written terms before you agree. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor call at the agency and utility, then request NJBPU mediation. (nj.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Apply Once and Stack Benefits

1. Complete the DCAid screening: Go to DCAid, answer questions, and create an account. Call 1‑800‑510‑3102 for help, and keep the DCA LIHEAP page open for the printable application. (nj.gov)
2. Upload documents clearly: Use a notes app scanner. Check the agency directory for email/fax if upload fails, and confirm receipt on the portal. (nj.gov)
3. Call your utility: Request a DPA and note “pending assistance.” Keep NJBPU complaints and the Bill of Rights visible. (nj.gov)
4. Layer programs: If LIHEAP isn’t enough, add USF and PAGE via SHARES, and enroll in Comfort Partners for long‑term savings. (nj.gov)
5. Protect against shutoff: Ask for WTP coding in winter, medical holds under Linda’s Law if needed, and file at NJBPU if your plan isn’t honored. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NJ 211 for a live specialist, ask LSNJ for legal intervention, and use BPU’s complaint form to escalate. (nj211.org)

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Tables You Can Use Quickly

1) Key State Programs at a Glance

2) FY 2025 USF/LIHEAP Income Examples (SMI)

3) Shutoff Protections

4) Water Help (selected providers)

5) Who to Call When Things Stall

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Real‑World Examples

• Essex County mom with PSE&G: You receive a 72‑hour shutoff notice. You call PSE&G at 1‑800‑357‑2262, get a 12‑month DPA, and apply on DCAid for LIHEAP/USF the same day. You also enroll in Comfort Partners to lower usage and keep NJBPU complaints ready in case the arrangement isn’t honored. (nj.pseg.com)
• Atlantic County mom with South Jersey Gas and NJ American Water: You request a payment arrangement at SJG assistance and apply for LIHEAP/USF via DCAid. For water, you secure a H2O Help to Others grant to erase a portion of arrears. (southjerseygas.com)
• Hudson County mom with JCMUA water: You contact JCMUA for billing and then apply for USF/LIHEAP at DCAid, noting any DPA in your account to avoid water shutoff while you stabilize gas/electric. (jcmua.com)

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How to Use State Cash/Work Programs in a Crisis

Work First New Jersey (TANF/GA/EA): If you’re on or eligible for WFNJ, ask about Emergency Assistance for utility arrears. Start at WFNJ Apply, discuss immediate need with your county, and pair with DCAid for long‑term energy credits. If you’re sanctioned or timed‑out, ask about limited extensions; use WFNJ program info and call your County Board of Social Services. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use NJ 211 to find last‑dollar grants and ask LSNJ about appeal rights. (nj211.org)

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FAQs (New Jersey‑Specific)

1. How fast can I get help once I apply
   Most non‑crisis applications take about 10–15 business days when documents are complete. Check DCAid status messages, call 1‑800‑510‑3102 to confirm your file is “complete,” and ask your utility for a DPA while you wait. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)
2. Does USF harm my Equal Payment/Budget Plan
   No. USF is a credit; you can also use a budget plan. Review BPU’s USF info, and ask your utility to recalc your budget after USF posts. (nj.gov)
3. What if I barely miss LIHEAP income limits
   Apply for PAGE via SHARES and ask NJ 211 for local charity leads using Other Utility Programs. Always request a DPA with your utility. (nj211.org)
4. Can undocumented households get energy help
   USF and PAGE don’t require an SSN; LIHEAP requires at least one person with an SSN. See the BPU Assistance page and apply at DCAid. (nj.gov)
5. Are there automatic bill credits in 2025
   Yes, REAP credits were automatically applied in summer 2025 to eligible households, with BPU guidance indicating seven $25 credits; check your bill. See NJBPU Assistance Program – REAP and the June 18, 2025 BPU release. (nj.gov)
6. Does ACP still reduce internet bills
   No. ACP ended in 2024. Use FCC Lifeline and call your ISP for low‑income plans. Read warnings on the FCC ACP page. (fcc.gov)
7. How do I get legal help if my utility won’t budge
   Call LSNJ 1‑888‑576‑5529 for telephone advice and file a complaint with NJBPU to trigger mediation. (lsnj.org)
8. Can I get help with water bills
   Try NJ American Water H2O via SHARES, ask Veolia Cares, or enroll in Newark PromisePay if you live in Newark. (amwater.com)
9. What if I use an oxygen concentrator or ventilator
   Request a medical certification hold under Linda’s Law and file the doctor’s note quickly per N.J.A.C. 14:3‑3A.2. Contact NJBPU if service is still threatened. (nj.gov)
10. Can community solar really lower my bill
    Yes—New Jersey guarantees at least 15% savings on community solar credits, now shown on your normal utility bill with consolidated billing. Read Community Solar for Subscribers and the April 2025 expansion release. (njcleanenergy.com)

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Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Nota importante: Este resumen fue producido con herramientas de traducción asistidas por IA para su conveniencia. Verifique siempre con las agencias oficiales.

• Dónde aplicar: Use DCAid (portal de energía) para LIHEAP (ayuda de energía) y USF (créditos en su factura). Llame al 1‑800‑510‑3102 para ayuda en varios idiomas. (nj.gov)
• Detener cortes: Pida un plan de pago a su compañía y solicite protección de invierno WTP. Revise Programa WTP y llame a NJBPU 1‑800‑624‑0241 si hay problemas. (nj.gov)
• Subsidios adicionales: Vea PAGE por SHARES si LIHEAP/USF no alcanza, y Comfort Partners para mejorar la eficiencia de su hogar sin costo. (nj.gov)
• Agua e internet: Para agua, busque H2O de NJ American Water. ACP terminó; use Lifeline del FCC para descuentos en teléfono/internet. (amwater.com)
• Emergencias legales: Llame a LSNJ 1‑888‑576‑5529 y presente queja en NJBPU si su compañía no coopera. (lsnj.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU)
• New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) – Energy Assistance
• ACF LIHEAP Clearinghouse – New Jersey Profile
• FCC Lifeline Program
• NJ 211 Partnership

Last verified: September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

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Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance in New Jersey as of September 2025. Program amounts, deadlines, and rules change based on funding. Always confirm the latest details directly with your utility, NJBPU, and DCA before you apply or make payment decisions. If you are facing a shutoff within 24–48 hours, call your utility first, then NJBPU Customer Assistance at 1‑800‑624‑0241, and submit your application immediately at DCAid. (nj.gov)

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What we verified and how

• WTP dates, DPA expectations, and complaint/mediation: confirmed via DCA WTP and NJBPU complaint pages. (nj.gov)
• USF 10/1/2025 benefit changes and REAP credits: verified in BPU’s June 18, 2025 release and BPU Assistance Programs. (nj.gov)
• FY 2025 income limits and LIHEAP benefit ranges: confirmed in DCA Nov. 18, 2024 notice and the ACF LIHEAP Clearinghouse profile. (nj.gov)
• Community Solar savings and consolidated billing: confirmed via BPU 4/23/2025 expansion and NJ Clean Energy’s subscriber page. (nj.gov)
• ACP program end and Lifeline: confirmed at the FCC ACP page and FCC Lifeline. (fcc.gov)

If we missed a local program or a new 2025 pilot, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate and update within 72 hours.

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