Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in North Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

North Carolina has several practical ways to cut or cover your power, gas, and water bills when money is tight. The fastest options are the state’s energy programs, your utility’s hardship funds, and city water hardship programs. Use the steps and contacts below right away, and verify details directly with the official sources linked throughout this guide.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call your county social services today and apply for Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) to stop a shutoff or reconnect power fast. Start at the statewide directory and ePASS: Local DSS Directory, CIP program page, ePASS online application. Expect the county to act within 18–48 hours once your signed application is in. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Ask your electric/gas company for a payment plan and a shutoff extension. Duke Energy offers a five- or ten‑day “Disconnect Date Extension,” while Dominion Energy allows two 30‑day medical extensions with a serious medical certification. Use these pages to request help: Duke Energy Disconnect Extension, Dominion Energy Serious Medical Condition, NC Utilities Commission Public Staff. (duke-energy.com)
• If disconnection is imminent, call the Utilities Commission Public Staff right after you speak with your utility. They can often hold a cut‑off while they review a complaint. Keep these numbers: 1‑866‑380‑9816 and 1‑919‑733‑9277. Learn more here: NCUC Public Staff contacts, Public Staff complaint page, AG guidance on billing/service problems. (ncuc.gov)

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Quick Help Box (keep these handy)

• Key statewide help lines: NC DHHS Customer Service 1‑800‑662‑7030, NC 211 (dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162), NCUC Public Staff 1‑866‑380‑9816. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Apply online: ePASS (LIEAP/CIP), NC DHHS Energy Assistance hub, Local DSS Directory. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Legal backup if you face shutoff: Legal Aid of North Carolina Helpline 1‑866‑219‑5262, NC Attorney General consumer utilities guidance, NC Utilities Commission complaint steps. (legalaidnc.org)
• Utility assistance programs: Duke Energy Share the Light Fund and CAP, Dominion Energy EnergyShare, Piedmont Natural Gas Share the Warmth. (duke-energy.com)
• Weatherization and home repairs: NC Weatherization — Find Your Provider, How to Apply for WAP (US DOE), DEQ $10M Weatherization Readiness (Western NC). (deq.nc.gov)

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How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in North Carolina Today

Act within hours, not days. Use the steps below in this order.

• Call your utility and ask for a written payment plan right now. Regulated electric and gas companies must offer reasonable installment arrangements and give at least 10 days’ written notice before disconnection, with the bill due at least 25 days after the billing date. Start the plan and ask for a supervisor if needed: NC DOJ “Termination of Utility Service” consumer page, NC Admin. Code R12‑11 (electric disconnection), NC Admin. Code R12‑10 (gas disconnection). (ncdoj.gov)
• Request a medical extension if someone in the home has a serious condition. Dominion Energy allows two 30‑day extensions with a medical certification; Duke Energy can grant short extensions and has special handling for medical needs. Ask for the medical form while you set a payment arrangement: Dominion “Serious Medical Condition Certification”, Duke Energy assistance overview, NC DOJ winter protections. (www2.dominionenergy.com)
• Apply for CIP same‑day if you have a final/past‑due notice, a disconnection notice, or no heat/cooling. Counties must act within 18 hours for life‑threatening emergencies and within 48 hours for other crises after you sign the application: CIP policy manual (EP‑400), CIP program details, Local DSS Directory. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• If the utility still schedules a cutoff, call the Public Staff right away. They can intervene with regulated utilities while the dispute is reviewed. Use both numbers and send documents quickly: NCUC Public Staff numbers, Public Staff Consumer Services, Formal complaint steps. (ncuc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your doctor’s office for same‑day medical documentation if you have serious health risks; apply for LIEAP (one‑time heating payment) if it’s within the seasonal window; call NC 211 to locate charities that can make pledges; and document everything for a formal complaint. Use: LIEAP info, NC 211 referrals, NCUC complaint. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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State Energy Programs You Can Use First

Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) — one‑time heating help

Apply during winter. You don’t need a shutoff notice. The payment goes straight to your heating fuel or utility company.

• When to apply: Seniors (60+) or people with disabilities receiving Division of Aging and Adult Services services can apply in December; everyone else can apply January–March or until funds run out. Read dates and rules here: NC DHHS LIEAP, 2024–25 state press release with dates, Mecklenburg County LIEAP info. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Benefit amount: Most households receive $300,$400, or $500 based on their main heating source. State and county pages and the federal clearinghouse confirm this range. See: LIHEAP Clearinghouse (NC profile), Mecklenburg LIEAP details, Chatham County LIEAP page. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• How long it takes: Counties often quote 4–6 weeks for the credit to post to your utility account once approved. Plan for a gap and ask your utility for a short extension. Check: Mecklenburg timeline note, NC DHHS LIEAP overview, Local DSS Directory. (news.mecknc.gov)
• Where to apply: Apply online or by phone through your county DSS. Use: ePASS portal, Local DSS Directory, NC DHHS contact center 1‑800‑662‑7030. (ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county about CIP for an urgent shutoff, check utility hardship funds, and look for city water‑bill programs. Start here: CIP page, Duke CAP/Share the Light, Raleigh UCAP. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) — for shutoff notices or no heat/cooling

If you’re in danger of losing heat or cooling, CIP is the fastest state help. Counties must authorize benefits within 18–48 hours after a signed application.

• Who qualifies: Households at or below 150% of the federal poverty level with an energy crisis, like a disconnect notice or no fuel. Bring a bill showing the amount needed to resolve the crisis. Learn more at: CIP program page, CIP policy manual EP‑400, Mecklenburg income table. (ncdhhs.gov)
• How much you can get: Up to $600 per state fiscal year (July 1–June 30), with enough paid to stop the crisis in each case. Local county pages match this cap. Check: Chatham County CIP, Wayne County CIP, LIHEAP Clearinghouse benefits. (chathamcountync.gov)
• Timing: Life‑threatening emergencies should be handled within 18 hours; all other crises within 48 hours of a complete, signed application. That’s in the state manual counties use every day. Source: EP‑400 manual (July 1, 2025), CIP program page, Local DSS Directory to apply. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• How to apply fast: Call your county DSS and ask for a same‑day CIP intake. If you cannot get to the office, ask for a phone interview and telephonic signature. Use: County directory, ePASS, NC DHHS Customer Service. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Tribal households: If your household includes a Native American adult and you live in Lumbee or Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians areas, the manual directs you to apply through your tribe. Confirm with your tribe’s assistance office. See: EP‑400 manual (tribal application rule), NC DHHS Energy Assistance hub, Local DSS Directory. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a supervisor for a review, show medical risk, ask your utility for a short extension, and request help from a charity that can pledge funds. Use: NC 211 for local charities, NCUC Public Staff assistance, Salvation Army online intake (SAHelp). (unitedwaync.org)

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Weatherization and Energy Efficiency — cut bills long‑term

Weatherization can lower bills permanently. You may also get safety fixes so your home can be weatherized.

• What you get: Air sealing, insulation, HVAC tune‑ups or replacements, and health/safety work at no cost. Start with your local weatherization provider and ask about waitlists. Use: Find Your WAP Provider, How to Apply (DOE), NC DEQ program info. (deq.nc.gov)
• What’s new in 2025: NC DEQ launched a $10 million “Weatherization Readiness” fund to fix issues (like roof or electrical repairs) that block weatherization for households in Western NC counties hit by Hurricane Helene. Ask providers if your county is covered. See: DEQ press release (Sept 11, 2025), NC DEQ WAP updates, Annual provider application notice. (deq.nc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your electric/gas utility about income‑qualified weatherization or efficiency kits while you wait. Use: Duke Energy programs, NC Electric Cooperatives — find your co‑op, ElectriCities member communities. (news.duke-energy.com)

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Your Rights and Protections in North Carolina

• Notice and time to pay: Electric and gas bills must give you at least 25 days from billing before they are “past due,” and utilities must give at least 10 days’ written notice before cutting service. Read the rules: NC DOJ consumer page, R12‑11 Electric, R12‑09 Billing procedures. (ncdoj.gov)
• Winter protections: From November 1 through March 31, regulated utilities cannot disconnect service for certain low‑income elderly/disabled households certified by social services as eligible for energy help and unable to pay under a plan. Confirm with: NC DOJ “Termination of Utility Service”, Public Staff contacts, Public Staff complaint steps. (ncdoj.gov)
• When cutoffs may not happen: Not on Fridays, weekends, state/federal holidays, or the day before a holiday. See: R12‑11 Electric disconnection rule, NC DOJ guidance, Utilities Commission contact page. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a regulated utility violates these rules, call the Public Staff right away and file a complaint. Use: Public Staff numbers, Complaint how‑to, Formal complaint path. (ncuc.gov)

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Utility Company Assistance You Should Know

• Duke Energy — Customer Assistance Program (CAP) and Share the Light Fund: If you qualify for LIEAP or CIP on your Duke account, you may get an automatic monthly bill credit up to $42 for 12 months under CAP. You can also seek help for deposits and reconnection fees through partner agencies via Share the Light Fund. Learn more here: Duke CAP details (NC), Customer assistance overview, Share the Light Fund news. (duke-energy.com)
• Dominion Energy — EnergyShare and medical extensions: EnergyShare can pay up to $600 for heating (Oct 1–May 31) and is open to anyone in hardship, not just low income. Medical certifications can delay disconnection twice for 30 days each within a year. Start here: EnergyShare (North Carolina), Energy Assistance page (NC electric), Medical Conditions info. (dominionenergy.com)
• Piedmont Natural Gas — Share the Warmth: Funds (through agencies) can pay energy bills for many heating sources, not only gas. Call 1‑800‑752‑7504 or ask your DSS about partner agencies. Read how it works: Share the Warmth, Program details page, NC DHHS energy programs. (piedmontng.com)
• Electric Cooperatives — Operation Round Up: Many co‑ops fund emergency bill help via Operation Round Up. Check your co‑op for grants. Start here: NC Electric Cooperatives — find your co‑op, Four County EMC Round Up, Central EMC Round Up. (ncelectriccooperatives.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker to pledge from CIP, then call local charities that can send pledges directly to the utility. Try: NC 211, Crisis Assistance Ministry (Mecklenburg), Catholic Charities (Diocese of Raleigh). (unitedwaync.org)

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Water Bill Help by City

• Charlotte Water Bill Help: Charlotte Water’s CLTWater Cares program points families to resources and community partners for payment relief. Start here and ask about referrals to Crisis Assistance Ministry for pledges: Charlotte Water homepage (Customer Assistance), Crisis Assistance Ministry utilities help, NC 211 referrals. (charlottenc.gov)
• Raleigh Water — UCAP: Raleigh’s Utility Customer Assistance Program offers up to $275 per fiscal year, administered by Wake County Human Services; apply by email or mail. Details and contacts here: Raleigh UCAP (Aug 2025), Raleigh UCAP program page (Mar 2025), Raleigh Water delinquent accounts page. (raleighnc.gov)
• Durham Water Hardship Fund: Apply online for up to $240 per fiscal year if you have a past‑due balance and are in danger of shutoff. You must pay at least 25% of the past‑due amount if approved. Use: Water Hardship Fund application, Durham Water COVID response page (program summary), NC 211 referrals. (durhamnc.gov)
• Greensboro & High Point: Ask Water Resources about payment plans up to six months, and check Greensboro Urban Ministry or Salvation Army High Point for pledges when funds are available. Start here: Greensboro Water Resources Customer Service, Guilford County resource list (includes Salvation Army), NC 211. (greensboro-nc.gov)
• Wilmington/CFPUA: The CFPUA Assist program provides emergency help for water/sewer bills via New Hanover County DSS. Apply locally: CFPUA Financial Assistance, Local DSS directory to apply, NC 211. (cfpua.org)
• Asheville: Call Customer Service at 828‑251‑1122 (option 2) and ask for payment arrangements and assistance referrals through NC 211. Start here: Asheville Water bill page, NC 211, NC DHHS Energy Assistance. (ashevillenc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a manager to set a longer payment plan, request late fee waivers, and get a pledge from a charity that the city accepts. Use: NC 211, Crisis Assistance Ministry, Legal Aid of NC helpline. (unitedwaync.org)

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What Documents You’ll Need (printable checklist)

• Photo ID for the applicant (driver’s license or other ID): LIEAP requirements, CIP requirements, Local DSS Directory. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Social Security numbers (when available) for household members: CIP manual, CIP page, LIEAP page. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, award letters): LIEAP eligibility, CIP income rules, Mecklenburg income tables. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Most recent utility bill or disconnect notice with the amount due: CIP program page, EP‑400 manual, ePASS. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Lease, landlord letter, or proof of responsibility for utilities: LIEAP eligibility docs, EP‑400 manual, Local DSS Directory. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Eligibility Snapshot (LIEAP and CIP)

Use your county’s current chart for the exact limits and larger households. References: Mecklenburg energy page with tables, LIEAP FY2025 130% charts (NC DHHS), CIP program page. (dcr.mecknc.gov)

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City and County Examples (realistic timelines)

• Wake County/Raleigh: UCAP water grants up to $275 can post within a few business days after approval; LIEAP credits usually appear within 4–6 weeks and CIP can stop a cut‑off within 18–48 hours. Check program pages and ask your worker to email a pledge to the utility same day: UCAP page, LIEAP press release (dates), CIP manual (response time). (raleighnc.gov)
• Mecklenburg/Charlotte: Crisis Assistance Ministry often pledges the same day if funding is open; LIEAP credits of $300–$500 are common and post in 4–6 weeks. Confirm open hours and needed documents before you go: Crisis Assistance Ministry, Mecklenburg LIEAP details, Charlotte Water assistance page. (crisisassistance.org)
• Durham: The Water Hardship Fund offers up to $240 per fiscal year for past‑due balances; CIP remains the main resource for electric/gas shutoffs. Apply online for water help and call DSS for energy help: Durham Water Hardship, CIP, Local DSS Directory. (durhamnc.gov)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

• Crisis Assistance Ministry (Mecklenburg): In‑person rent and utility help with daily intake; ask about same‑day pledges to utilities. Start here: Emergency Financial Assistance (Spratt St.), General “How We Help”, NC 211 for other counties. (crisisassistance.org)
• Catholic Charities (Diocese of Raleigh): Several regional offices provide emergency utility help by appointment; call first. Learn more here: Cape Fear region utility assistance, Tar River region office, Diocese of Raleigh Catholic Charities listing. (catholiccharitiesraleigh.org)
• The Salvation Army (multiple counties): Many corps provide utility pledges; use SAHelp to apply and find your local office. Start here: SAHelp online intake, Wake/Lee County corps, National rent/utility help page. (v1.sahelp.org)
• Greensboro/High Point options: Check Greensboro Urban Ministry, Salvation Army, and county resources when funds are open. A good starting list is here: Guilford County “Get Help” page, Greensboro Water Resources Customer Service, NC 211. (guilfordcountync.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask each group to “pledge” by phone or email directly to your utility, then follow up with CIP to close any gap. Use: CIP, NC 211 find‑help, NCUC Public Staff. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to call the utility. Late‑fee clocks and disconnection notice timelines keep running. Ask for a payment plan and document every call. Read your rights here: NC DOJ utility termination page, R12‑11 electric rule, Public Staff complaint steps. (ncdoj.gov)
• Applying for the wrong program for your need. Use LIEAP for one‑time heating help during the winter season, and CIP when you have a shutoff notice or no heat/cooling. Learn the difference: LIEAP basics, CIP basics, Local DSS Directory. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Not bringing the right documents. Missing bills or proof of income can delay help. Use this checklist and confirm with your county: Documents list (LIEAP), CIP manual, Local DSS Directory. (ncdhhs.gov)

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“Reality Check” — Delays, Denials, Funding Gaps

• Funds do run out: LIEAP closes when money runs out, and CIP can pause when allocations are depleted. Always ask for a “pledge” from a charity to hold your account. Learn more: LIEAP dates/funding, CIP program timeline, NC 211 referrals. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Processing time is real: LIEAP can take 4–6 weeks to post; ask your utility for a short extension and set a payment arrangement to avoid a cutoff. See: Mecklenburg LIEAP timeline, Duke Disconnect Extension, NCUC Public Staff. (news.mecknc.gov)
• Rules vary for municipal utilities and co‑ops: The Utilities Commission’s rules don’t cover city‑run or co‑op power/water; you must work with the local office and city council if needed. Start here: NCUC Public Staff FAQ, ElectriCities (public power communities), NC Electric Cooperatives. (publicstaff.nc.gov)

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for the reason in writing and fix it fast. You can appeal if a decision isn’t made within 48 hours for CIP, or if you’re denied for missing documents you can supply. Use: CIP manual (appeals), Local DSS Directory, DHHS Customer Service 1‑800‑662‑7030. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• File a complaint if a regulated utility refuses a reasonable plan. Call the Public Staff immediately and follow with a written complaint if needed. Use: Public Staff numbers and contact, How to pursue a complaint, Formal complaint filing. (ncuc.gov)
• Get backup from Legal Aid. If you need legal help to stop a shutoff or enforce a plan, call 1‑866‑219‑5262. More here: Legal Aid of NC Helpline, NC DOJ consumer help, NC 211 referrals. (legalaidnc.org)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Resources

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for respectful, safe service and language access. If staff are not welcoming, request a supervisor and note the agency’s nondiscrimination policies. For community support while you navigate bills, consider: NC 211, Legal Aid of NC Helpline, NC DHHS Hotlines. (unitedwaync.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask your utility about medical notations and extensions, and keep medical certification on file. You can also call Relay services for hearing access. Start here: Dominion medical extensions, NC DHHS RelayNC (TTY), NC DHHS Hotlines (CSHCN 1‑800‑737‑3028). (www2.dominionenergy.com)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask your county Veterans Services office or NCServes about emergency utility help and coordination with DSS. While you apply, also use: NC 211 veterans navigation, Legal Aid of NC, NC DHHS Energy Assistance. (nccare360.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can apply for CIP/LIEAP if someone in the household meets immigration criteria and you meet income rules. For culturally competent help, try: Catholic Charities (Raleigh regions), NC DHHS Energy Assistance hub, NC 211. (catholiccharitiesraleigh.org)
• Tribal members: The CIP manual directs certain counties’ Native households to apply through their tribe (Lumbee; Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians). Confirm your tribe’s intake office for faster processing. See: EP‑400 manual (tribal rule), NC DHHS Energy Assistance hub, Local DSS Directory. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Rural single moms: Co‑ops and public power cities have their own rules. Ask about “Operation Round Up,” local hardship funds, and payment plans. Start here: NC Electric Cooperatives — find your co‑op, Four County EMC Round Up, ElectriCities communities. (ncelectriccooperatives.com)
• Single fathers: All state and utility programs listed apply to single fathers as well. If you face discrimination, document it and escalate. Use: NC 211, Public Staff complaint help, NC DHHS Hotlines (Customer Service). (unitedwaync.org)
• Language access: Ask for an interpreter at county DSS and your utility. For TTY, use RelayNC. Contacts: NC DHHS Hotlines (TTY info), RelayNC, Public Staff numbers. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Resources by Region (who to call first)

• Charlotte–Mecklenburg: Crisis Assistance Ministry (utilities), Charlotte Water (assistance hub), Local DSS for CIP/LIEAP. (crisisassistance.org)
• Triangle (Wake, Durham, Orange): Raleigh UCAP (up to $275)\ast ](https://raleighnc.gov/water-and-sewer/services/payment-assistance-utility-customers),[\ast DurhamWaterHardshipFund(upto$240), Local DSS directory for CIP/LIEAP. (raleighnc.gov)
• Triad (Guilford, Forsyth): Greensboro Water Resources (payment plans), Guilford County “Get Help”, NC 211. (greensboro-nc.gov)
• Eastern NC (New Hanover, Pitt, coastal counties): CFPUA Assist (Wilmington), Greenville Utilities Neighbor to Neighbor, Local DSS directory. (cfpua.org)
• Western NC (Buncombe, Watauga, mountain counties): Asheville Water — contact & pay options, WAP provider list (ask about readiness funds), DEQ’s 2025 readiness fund announcement. (ashevillenc.gov)

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Step‑by‑Step: Applying Smoothly

• Collect your documents, then apply online or by phone to save time. Use: ePASS, CIP, LIEAP. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Ask for a same‑day CIP phone interview if you’re in crisis and mention any medical risks in the home. Confirm timelines and ask your worker to email a pledge to the utility while it processes. Start with: EP‑400 manual timelines, Local DSS Directory, NC DHHS Customer Service. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• Set a payment plan with your utility the same day you apply for aid. If they refuse something reasonable, call Public Staff. Use: Duke extension options, Public Staff complaint steps, Public Staff numbers. (duke-energy.com)

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County‑Specific Variations That Matter

• Charity coverage differs: In Mecklenburg, Crisis Assistance Ministry is the main utility charity; in Wilmington, CFPUA Assist runs through New Hanover DSS; in Greenville, GUC works with DSS on Neighbor to Neighbor. See: Crisis Assistance Ministry, CFPUA Assist, Neighbor to Neighbor. (crisisassistance.org)
• Water hardship programs vary: Raleigh ($275/year),Durham($240/year), Charlotte varies by partner pledges. Check local pages: Raleigh UCAP, Durham Water Hardship, Charlotte Water Customer Assistance. (raleighnc.gov)
• Co‑ops and municipal power: They are not under NCUC’s residential shutoff rules. You must negotiate locally or appeal to city officials if needed. Start here: ElectriCities communities, NC Electric Cooperatives, Public Staff jurisdiction note. (electricities.com)

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Frequently Asked Questions (North Carolina‑specific)

• How fast can CIP stop a shutoff once I apply: Counties must authorize benefits within 18 hours for life‑threatening crises and 48 hours for other energy crises after you sign. Ask your worker to send a pledge to the utility immediately. Read: CIP manual (EP‑400), CIP program page, Local DSS Directory. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• How much does LIEAP pay this season: Most NC households receive a one‑time $300–$500 vendor payment, depending on your primary heating source. Confirm with your county. See: LIHEAP Clearinghouse (NC benefits), Mecklenburg LIEAP details, LIEAP program page. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Can I apply if the utility bill isn’t in my name: Yes, but you’ll need proof that you’re responsible for the bill (a letter from the account holder or landlord). That’s in EP‑400. See: CIP manual, CIP page, Local DSS Directory. (policies.ncdhhs.gov)
• What if I’m on medical equipment: Ask your utility to add a medical notation and submit a medical certification for disconnection delays; still set a payment plan. Start here: Dominion medical extensions, NC DOJ consumer protections, Public Staff contacts. (www2.dominionenergy.com)
• Are there winter disconnection protections: Yes, for some low‑income elderly/disabled households certified by social services (Nov 1–Mar 31). Ask DSS for certification. See: NC DOJ winter protections, Public Staff help, CIP page. (ncdoj.gov)
• Can I get help for water/sewer bills: State LIHWAP ended, but many cities have hardship funds or local programs (Raleigh UCAP, Durham Water Hardship). Ask your city and DSS. See: Raleigh UCAP, Durham Water Hardship Fund, Local DSS Directory. (raleighnc.gov)
• Do utilities have their own funds: Yes. Duke’s Share the Light (plus CAP bill credits), Dominion’s EnergyShare ($600 max for heating), and Piedmont’s Share the Warmth. Check your provider: Duke CAP/Share the Light, EnergyShare, Share the Warmth. (duke-energy.com)
• Who do I call if the utility won’t work with me: Call the Utilities Commission Public Staff at 1‑866‑380‑9816 or 1‑919‑733‑9277 after you’ve tried with the utility. Use: Public Staff contacts, Consumer Services Division, Complaint steps. (ncuc.gov)
• What if I live in a city with its own power system: Your city may set its own rules. Call customer service and, if needed, contact your city manager or council. Look up your community here: ElectriCities communities, NC 211, Public Staff jurisdiction note. (electricities.com)
• How do I find my county DSS office: Use the state’s directory to get exact addresses and phone numbers. Start here: Local DSS Directory, DHHS Social Services contacts, DHHS Customer Service 1‑800‑662‑7030. (ncdhhs.gov)
• Can disaster funds help with utilities: Yes, if you live in designated counties impacted by Hurricane Helene, Disaster Energy payments may cover reconnection fees, deposits, heaters, and more while funds last. See: NC DHHS Energy Assistance (Disaster Energy), Program income limits and uses, Local DSS Directory. (ncdhhs.gov)

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Tables You Can Screenshot

Table — Utility Company Contacts and Help

Table — City Water Assistance at a Glance

Table — Application Timing and What To Expect

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Application Checklist You Can Screenshot

• Apply for CIP if in shutoff status (phone interview allowed). Use: CIP page, Local DSS Directory, ePASS.
• Apply for LIEAP during the open window for a one‑time vendor payment. Use: LIEAP page, Press release (dates), Local DSS Directory.
• Set a payment plan with your utility (and ask for an extension). Use: Duke extension, Dominion assistance, Public Staff help.
• Ask a charity to pledge if there’s a gap. Use: NC 211, Crisis Assistance Ministry, Salvation Army SAHelp.

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Key Contacts (save these)

• NC DHHS Customer Service: 1‑800‑662‑7030 — Hotlines page, Energy Assistance hub, Local DSS Directory.
• NC Utilities Commission Public Staff: 1‑866‑380‑9816 or 1‑919‑733‑9277 — Contact page, Consumer Services Division, Submit complaint.
• NC 211 (United Way): Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑888‑892‑1162 — About NC 211, Request assistance form (NCCARE360), NC 211 partners & FAQs.

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta guía describe cómo obtener ayuda para pagar la electricidad, el gas y el agua en Carolina del Norte. Para una emergencia, solicite el Programa de Intervención en Crisis (CIP) hoy, pida a su compañía de servicios un plan de pagos/una prórroga, y llame al Personal Público de la Comisión de Servicios (1‑866‑380‑9816). Para pagos únicos de calefacción, solicite LIEAP en invierno. Use estos enlaces oficiales: CIP (emergencias), LIEAP (pago único), ePASS (solicitar en línea). Si necesita referencias locales, marque 2‑1‑1 (o 1‑888‑892‑1162) para NC 211. Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme los detalles con las fuentes oficiales.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• NC Department of Health and Human Services — Energy Assistance, CIP policy manual EP‑400 (July 1, 2025), LIEAP announcements (2024–25 season).
• North Carolina Utilities Commission — Public Staff, Consumer complaint steps, Contact page.
• LIHEAP Clearinghouse — North Carolina profile (updated Mar 20, 2025), Program benefits and income rules, Seasonal disconnect protections overview.
• NC DEQ — Weatherization Assistance Program, DEQ press release on readiness funding (Sept 11, 2025), DOE — How to Apply for WAP.
• City water assistance — Raleigh UCAP, Durham Water Hardship Fund, CFPUA Assist.
• Utility hardship programs — Duke CAP/Share the Light, Dominion EnergyShare, Piedmont Share the Warmth.

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 only and is not legal advice. Program rules, funding, and timelines change. Always confirm current availability and amounts with the official agency or utility before applying. Use the official links in this guide to verify the latest details and call to confirm before you make payments or decisions.

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• 🚨 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