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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in North Dakota

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in North Dakota (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you direct, no‑nonsense steps to keep your lights, heat, water, and internet on in North Dakota. It links straight to official programs, local charities, and your utility companies, and it sets realistic expectations about timing, paperwork, and roadblocks. All links are placed right where you need them, with the most urgent actions first.


According to the state’s energy program, North Dakota now calculates heating help so families approved for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) pay no more than 6% of their income for heat, with applications accepted year‑round. You’ll also find backup options like Energy Share for electric shutoffs, Weatherization for long‑term savings, and payment plans through your gas and electric utilities. See the sections below for how to apply, required documents, and exact offices and phone numbers. (hhs.nd.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call your utility’s credit/collections line now and ask for a payment plan. Use the customer service numbers for Montana‑Dakota Utilities (MDU) 1-800-638-3278, Xcel Energy 1-800-895-4999, or Otter Tail Power 1-800-257-4044. Tell them you’re setting up a “deferred installment agreement” and ask them to flag your account so disconnection pauses while you finalize the plan. (montana-dakota.com)
  • Start your LIHEAP application today (energy bill help). Apply online via North Dakota LIHEAP, call the Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005, or ask Community Options at 1-800-823-2417 to help you fill it out. Upload your disconnect notice, most recent bill, and last 30 days of income to speed decisions. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • If shutoff is less than 48 hours away, call the North Dakota Public Service Commission (PSC) after you contact your utility. Ask for help delaying the shutoff while you set a plan and apply for aid: ND PSC Consumer Information 1-877-245-6685 (TTY 1-800-366-6888). If someone in the home is 65+, disabled, or has a serious medical condition, tell your utility in writing to request the 30‑day disconnection delay allowed by PSC rules. (psc.nd.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

  • ND HHS Customer Support (LIHEAP, SNAP, Medicaid): Apply for Help Center 1-866-614-6005, TTY 711; email applyforhelp@nd.gov. Use this for LIHEAP status, documents, and case changes. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Community Action (local offices statewide): Find your CAP agency for Energy Share electric shutoff help, furnace fixes, and weatherization referrals; see phone list by region (e.g., Bismarck 701-258-2240; Grand Forks 701-746-5431). (dpcaa.org)
  • FirstLink 211 (24/7 referrals and crisis help): Dial 2‑1‑1 or text your ZIP to 898‑211 at FirstLink 211; they also answer 988 for mental health crises. (myfirstlink.org)
  • North Dakota Public Service Commission (utility disputes): PSC Consumer Info 1-877-245-6685; TTY 1-800-366-6888. They can often delay shutoffs during disputes and explain your rights. (psc.nd.gov)
  • Legal Services of North Dakota (denials/shutoffs/consumer issues): LSND Get Help 1-800-634-5263 (under 60) | 1-866-621-9886 (60+). Ask for help with LIHEAP appeals and utility shutoff issues. (lsnd.org)

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in North Dakota Today

Start here if you have a disconnect notice or a door tag. These steps are written for a same‑day plan.

  • Call the utility and get on a written payment plan. Ask them to note your account and email/text you the agreement. Reference your right to enter a deferred installment plan under PSC service standards. For electric, see ND Admin Code 69‑09‑02‑05.1 (Discontinuance of electric service). For gas, see ND Admin Code 69‑09‑01‑18.1. If the notice window has not expired, ask for a 10‑day grace period to finalize the plan. (law.cornell.edu)
  • Request a 30‑day delay if you qualify. If anyone in the home is 65+, disabled, or has a documented medical condition that makes loss of service dangerous, notify the utility immediately and in writing. Under PSC rules, utilities must allow up to 30 days to arrange payment. Use a doctor’s letter or clinic note; keep proof you sent it. See PSC Consumer Information. (psc.nd.gov)
  • File your LIHEAP application and alert your utility. Apply on ND LIHEAP and upload your disconnect notice. Tell your utility you’ve applied and will share your LIHEAP case number; many utilities will pause disconnection if you’re actively working with LIHEAP or Energy Share. Expect non‑crisis decisions in roughly two weeks off‑peak; in busy months it can take longer, while Energy Share payments can take up to six weeks to post. Call to confirm local timelines. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • If talks stall, call the PSC. After you’ve tried the utility, call PSC Consumer Affairs at 1-877-245-6685 (TTY 1-800-366-6888). They can often persuade a company to delay shutoff while you set a plan or verify aid. Keep your account number, notice date, and any case numbers ready. (psc.nd.gov)
  • Know the basic protections. Utilities must give you a 10‑day written notice; they can’t disconnect after noon, or on Fridays, weekends, or state holidays; and payment plans are available. These rights are in the PSC rules for electric and gas service. There is no statewide winter shutoff ban, so act fast—bring in LIHEAP, energy charities, and payment plans at the same time. See ND Admin Code 69‑09‑02‑05.1 (electric) and LIHEAP Clearinghouse summary for ND. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call FirstLink 211 via myFirstLink to locate a church or charity able to make a same‑day pledge; ask your doctor or clinic to fax a medical certificate; and escalate to the PSC with a written complaint if needed. If you’re denied LIHEAP, you can appeal—see the appeal steps below. (myfirstlink.org)

North Dakota LIHEAP (Energy Bill Help): Eligibility, Benefits, How to Apply

North Dakota’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can pay part of your heating costs, help in emergencies, and cover furnace cleaning/repairs. You can apply year‑round, and the state’s current policy aims to cap your heating burden at about 6% of income when you qualify. Start online, by phone, or with in‑person help. See North Dakota LIHEAP, Apply for Help Center, and the state’s announcement about the 6% cap in 2024‑25. (hhs.nd.gov)

  • Eligibility rules: LIHEAP uses 60% of state median income; both homeowners and renters can qualify. If you’re a tribal member living on reservation land, apply through your tribe’s LIHEAP (see the Tribal section below). See income limits below or on LIHEAP — ND HHS. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • What LIHEAP can cover: A portion of heating costs (natural gas, electricity, propane, fuel oil, coal, wood), weatherization, furnace work, chimney cleaning, and emergency help. If electricity is not your primary heat and you’re LIHEAP‑approved, Community Action may use Energy Share to help with past‑due electric. See LIHEAP — ND HHS and Energy Share overview. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • How to apply (fastest routes): Apply online in the Self‑Service Portal or call 1-866-614-6005. If you prefer in‑person help, reach your local Human Service Zone office or ask Community Options at 1-800-823-2417 to come to you. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Documents you’ll need: ID, last 30 days of income, your current heating bill, lease (if renting), and proof of recent expenses (childcare, medical). Use the program’s Application Checklist on LIHEAP — ND HHS. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Timelines to expect: Outside peak season, a straightforward application can take about 10–15 business days; during fall and winter, expect longer. For emergency furnace issues or no‑heat situations, call the Customer Support Center so they can flag your case; Energy Share payments can take up to six weeks to post. Always call to confirm current timelines. See LIHEAP — ND HHS and RRVCA Energy Share. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • 2025 update — year‑round model: North Dakota moved LIHEAP to a year‑round application/eligibility model so approved clients don’t have to reapply each year; vendors may begin billing each heating season on Oct. 1. See LIHEAP Vendor Information. (hhs.nd.gov)

LIHEAP income limits (effective Oct. 1, 2024 – Sept. 30, 2025)

Household size Annual income max Monthly income max
1 $35,724 $2,977
2 $46,716 $3,893
3 $57,708 $4,809
4 $68,700 $5,725
5 $79,692 $6,641
6 $90,684 $7,557
7 $92,748 $7,729
8 $94,800 $7,900
9 $96,864 $8,072
10 $98,928 $8,244
11 $100,992 $8,416
12 $103,044 $8,587

Source: LIHEAP — ND HHS. Call to confirm the current season’s limits before you apply. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied or your award seems off, request a hearing with the SFN 162 form on LIHEAP — ND HHS. Ask Legal Services of North Dakota to review your notice, and call the PSC if your utility refuses to pause disconnection while you appeal. (hhs.nd.gov)

Crisis Funds for Electric Shutoffs (Energy Share) and Emergency Repairs

If electricity isn’t your primary heat but you’re facing an electric shutoff, ask your local Community Action agency about Energy Share. You must be LIHEAP‑approved, and funds can cover a portion of up to three months of electric bills, reconnection fees, or service charges; you will need a payment plan for any balance. Payments can take up to six weeks to hit your account. Learn more at RRVCA Energy Share and SENDCAA Utility Assistance, and see policy coordination at ND HHS LIHEAP Policy 415‑50‑05‑25 (Electric Utilities). (rrvca.com)

For urgent furnace problems (no‑heat, unsafe equipment), call the LIHEAP support line and ask for emergency help. They may coordinate furnace repair/replacement with Community Action weatherization staff. (hhs.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for a medical or vulnerability hold per PSC rules, then call FirstLink 211 via myFirstLink to find a church or civic fund that can pledge part of your bill the same day. (myfirstlink.org)

Weatherization Assistance (Cut Bills Long‑Term)

Weatherization can permanently lower your bills by sealing leaks, insulating, and fixing unsafe systems. In North Dakota, Weatherization is managed by the Department of Commerce and delivered by Community Action. LIHEAP clients are automatically eligible; others qualify at up to 200% of poverty. Apply through Weatherization — ND Commerce and your local Community Action office. (commerce.nd.gov)

Realistic timing: You’ll usually wait several weeks for an energy audit and then for a contractor schedule, especially in winter. But the upgrades can trim 10–30% off heating costs long‑term. Always ask for priority if you have a child under 5, a high energy burden, or a health risk noted in your LIHEAP file. See Weatherization — ND Commerce. (commerce.nd.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑submit after LIHEAP approval (automatic eligibility), and ask about utility rebates and no‑cost “balanced billing” to smooth winter spikes from MDU, Xcel Energy, or Otter Tail Power. (montana-dakota.com)

Water, Sewer, and City Utility Help

Even though the federal Low Income Household Water Assistance Program ended, most cities offer payment plans and won’t shut off the same day a bill is late. Call your city utility office as soon as you’re behind and set a plan.

  • Bismarck Water Bill Help: Use Bismarck Utility Billing 1-701-355-1700 (Option 1). Ask for payment arrangements and confirm reconnection fees and cut‑off times for your cycle. (bismarcknd.gov)
  • Fargo Water Bill Help: Call Fargo Utility Billing 1-701-241-1324 (Option 3), pay online, or enroll in autopay. Fargo’s water can be shut off when more than 15 days late and reconnection fees apply; use a payment plan if needed. (fargond.gov)
  • Grand Forks Water Bill Help: Call Grand Forks Utility Billing 1-701-746-2670, or see the current 2025 water/wastewater rates. Drop boxes are available if you cannot pay online. (grandforksgov.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 via FirstLink for local church funds, Salvation Army assistance, or a one‑time pledge. If you rent and utilities are in your name, check whether past‑due utilities can be considered a “barrier to housing” under current housing stability supports via ND HHS Housing Stabilization — limited pathways exist in 2025; call to confirm availability. (myfirstlink.org)

Electric and Natural Gas Company Programs You Can Use Right Now

Most disconnections can be avoided if you call early, enroll in budget billing, and set a plan. Use the “credit/collections” number on your bill and ask them to note your hardship and your active LIHEAP application.

Company serving ND Where they serve Key actions to ask for today Contact
Montana‑Dakota Utilities (gas/electric) Large parts of western/central ND Payment plan; Balanced Billing; Third‑Party Notification; pledge holds while aid is pending MDU Customer Service 1-800-638-3278; Third‑Party Notification
Xcel Energy (natural gas; some electric) Eastern ND, including Fargo area Payment plan; scam‑prevention tips; rate credits/refunds when applicable Xcel Billing & Payment 1-800-895-4999; Rate update (2025)
Otter Tail Power (electric) Eastern ND co‑service areas Payment plan; Even Monthly Payment; ND rights brochure; service standards Otter Tail Manage Service 1-800-257-4044; Service Standards & ND customer info

Caution: North Dakota has no statewide “Cold Weather Rule.” Your utility can disconnect in winter if you ignore notices, though companies will work with you on payment plans. Request a medical or vulnerability hold if eligible, and bring in LIHEAP and Community Action support quickly. See LIHEAP Clearinghouse summary and PSC Consumer Info. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the PSC at Consumer Information to mediate. They often secure a temporary hold while you set a plan or submit proof of a LIHEAP/charity pledge. (psc.nd.gov)

Phone and Internet Discounts After ACP Ended

The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024, so most households no longer receive the 30broadbandcredit.YourbestremainingfederaloptionisLifeline.Lifelinegivesupto30 broadband credit. Your best remaining federal option is Lifeline. Lifeline gives up to 9.25/month off phone or internet (up to $34.25 on Tribal lands). Apply through LifelineSupport.org or review details on USAC Lifeline. If you had ACP, many providers now offer low‑cost plans without the ACP credit—ask your carrier’s retention team. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a 211 specialist via FirstLink to help you switch to a cheaper plan or identify a community Wi‑Fi option while you stabilize bills. (myfirstlink.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Use these when you need a quick pledge, a case manager to call your utility, or help collecting documents.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility if they accept charity pledges and get a confirmation number. If you rent, check whether your past‑due utility is a “barrier to housing” under current (limited) housing stabilization aids at ND HHS Housing Stabilization. (hhs.nd.gov)

Resources by Region (Find Your Local Office Fast)

Each Community Action office covers specific counties and runs Energy Share, weatherization intake, and emergency services. Use the statewide list at CAPND — Contact an Agency. Examples:

County‑ and Utility‑Specific Notes (Real‑World Variations)

  • No statewide winter shutoff ban: North Dakota does not have a “Cold Weather Rule” like Minnesota. Disconnections can occur in winter if you ignore notices. Use payment plans plus LIHEAP and Energy Share together. Ask your doctor to fax a short note if someone is medically fragile; medical holds can buy time under PSC rules. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • MDU — winter disconnection practices: MDU states it considers disconnection a last resort; it won’t disconnect when adverse weather exists and urges immediate calls for payment arrangements, especially when a home has preschool children, seniors, or disabled residents. See MDU FAQs and MDU Payment Options. (montana-dakota.com)
  • Co‑ops and Operation Round Up: Rural electric co‑ops (e.g., Capital Electric, Northern Plains Electric, Verendrye) often run “Operation Round Up” grants that sometimes help with member emergencies. Ask your co‑op’s member services. See recent ND examples via Northern Plains Electric — grants news and Capital Electric’s community info. (jamestownsun.com)
  • City water billing rules vary: Fargo and Grand Forks publish current rates and fee schedules; Fargo may restore water only during weekday hours. Always call early and ask for a plan. See Fargo Water & Sewer Rates, Grand Forks water rates, and Bismarck Utility Billing. (fargond.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your utility refuses a reasonable plan or disconnects despite your good‑faith effort, call the PSC and ask for an informal complaint review same‑day. Keep copies of notices, call logs, and emails. (psc.nd.gov)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips, Rights, and Contacts

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask FirstLink to conference in your utility or HHS worker to overcome language or access barriers and to document your request for reasonable accommodation. Use ND HHS Apply for Help to request mail or large‑print forms. (hhs.nd.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting until the day of disconnection. Call early and set a plan with MDU, Xcel, or Otter Tail as soon as you get a shutoff notice. Ask to flag your account while aid is pending. (montana-dakota.com)
  • Not telling your utility about medical needs or seniors. A written note triggers extra protections under PSC rules. (psc.nd.gov)
  • Applying for LIHEAP without documents. Use the LIHEAP checklist and upload a clear photo of your bill, ID, and last 30 days of income to avoid delays. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Ignoring city water bills. Cities can shut off water quickly; call Bismarck, Fargo, or Grand Forks early to set a plan. (bismarcknd.gov)

Reality Check

  • Processing times vary. Non‑crisis LIHEAP can take a couple of weeks in off‑peak months, longer in fall/winter; Energy Share can take up to six weeks to post. Keep paying what you can while you wait. See LIHEAP and Energy Share (RRVCA). (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Funds are limited. Energy Share and charity funds run out. Apply early, and line up more than one resource (LIHEAP + payment plan + charity pledge). Check CAPND for other local options. (capnd.org)
  • No automatic winter moratorium. ND has no statewide cold‑weather ban. Focus on payment plans, medical holds, and fast LIHEAP/charity coordination. See LIHEAP Clearinghouse (ND summary). (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First call Backup option Notes
Stop electric/gas shutoff Your utility: MDU, Xcel, Otter Tail PSC Consumer Info Ask for a deferred installment agreement and a temporary hold while aid is pending. (montana-dakota.com)
Apply for heating help (LIHEAP) LIHEAP — ND HHS Community Options at 1-800-823-2417 Year‑round model; provides help with heating costs and furnace services. (hhs.nd.gov)
Electric shutoff and not your primary heat Local CAP Energy Share via RRVCA or SENDCAA 211 — FirstLink Must be LIHEAP‑approved; payment can take up to six weeks to post. (rrvca.com)
Lower bills long‑term Weatherization — ND Commerce Local Community Action LIHEAP clients are automatically eligible (200% FPL otherwise). (commerce.nd.gov)
Internet/phone discount LifelineSupport.org USAC — Companies Near Me ACP ended; apply for Lifeline and ask your carrier for low‑cost plans. (fcc.gov)

Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

  • Photo ID and Social Security numbers: Have IDs for adults and SSNs for all household members; request large‑print mailings if needed via Apply for Help Center. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Last 30 days of income: Pay stubs, benefits letters, or a self‑employment log for LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Your current utility bill(s): Include disconnect notice if you have one; ask your utility for a payment plan while you apply to LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Lease or landlord contact: Required if you rent; upload to the Self‑Service Portal (SSP). (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Medical note (if applicable): For medical/vulnerability holds under PSC rules, ask your clinic to fax a short note. (psc.nd.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied (or the Benefit Is Too Low)

  • Read the notice carefully and appeal right away. Use the SFN 162 Request for Hearing on LIHEAP — ND HHS. Keep paying what you can to avoid disconnection. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Ask for a case review. Email applyforhelp@nd.gov or call 1-866-614-6005, and request that a supervisor review your income calculation and fuel type. Use Apply for Help Center. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • Call Legal Services of North Dakota. Ask LSND to review whether the agency followed policy; they can help with appeals and utility shutoff issues. (lsnd.org)
  • Stabilize with a payment plan. While the appeal is pending, call MDU, Xcel, or Otter Tail to update your arrangement and ask for a hold. If needed, ask the PSC to mediate. (montana-dakota.com)

Tables You Can Use

Key State Contacts and Hotlines

Agency What they do How to reach
ND HHS — Apply for Help LIHEAP applications, status, documents, and general benefits help 1‑866‑614‑6005; TTY 711; applyforhelp@nd.gov
Public Service Commission (PSC) Dispute mediation; can often delay shutoffs while you set a plan 1‑877‑245‑6685; TTY 1‑800‑366‑6888
FirstLink 211 24/7 referrals, crisis support, and help locating local aid Dial 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211
Legal Services of ND Free legal aid for shutoffs, appeals, and consumer issues 1‑800‑634‑5263 (under 60) / 1‑866‑621‑9886 (60+)
Weatherization — ND Commerce Energy audits and home upgrades Apply online or through Community Action

Major Utility Companies Serving North Dakota

Utility Billing options Disconnection notes Contact
MDU AutoPay; Balanced Billing; Third‑Party Notification Encourages payment arrangements; won’t disconnect during adverse weather 1‑800‑638‑3278
Xcel Energy My Account; pay stations; budget plans Written notices; look for refunds/credits on approved rate cases 1‑800‑895‑4999
Otter Tail Power Even Monthly Payment; ND consumer brochures Contact Customer Service to set up or adjust plans 1‑800‑257‑4044

Local City Utility Billing (Water/Sewer)

City Start here Notes
Bismarck Utility Billing Payment arrangements; billing cycles; reconnection policies 1‑701‑355‑1700 (Option 1)
Fargo Utility Billing Online payments; 24/7 IVR; autopay 1‑701‑241‑1324 (Option 3)
Grand Forks Utility Billing 2025 rates; phone payments; drop boxes 1‑701‑746‑2670

Weatherization and Energy Efficiency

Program Who qualifies How to apply
Weatherization — ND Commerce LIHEAP households auto‑eligible; otherwise ≤200% FPL Apply online and your local Community Action will contact you
Community Action (by region) Families needing furnace repair/replacement and weatherization referrals Call your regional office to schedule an intake

Internet/Phone Discount Options

Program Benefit How to apply
Lifeline Up to 9.25/mo(9.25/mo (34.25 on Tribal lands) off phone or internet Apply online; then choose a provider using Companies Near Me
ISP low‑income plans Discounted plans (no ACP credit) Ask your current carrier’s retention team for low‑cost options

“Bismarck Water Bill Help,” “Fargo Water Bill Help,” and “Grand Forks Water Bill Help”

  • Bismarck Water Bill Help: Call Bismarck Utility Billing and request a payment plan; ask about your cycle’s reconnection hours and fees; confirm the mailing address if paying by money order. If you’re unemployed or between paychecks, ask FirstLink at myFirstLink for a one‑time pledge source. (bismarcknd.gov)
  • Fargo Water Bill Help: Use the city’s Utility Bill Payment options (phone IVR, online, autopay). If you’re 15+ days late, avoid shutoff by calling the Utility Billing office to set a plan; pair with LIHEAP if high electric heat bills pushed you behind. (fargond.gov)
  • Grand Forks Water Bill Help: Check 2025 rates at Grand Forks Water Utility Rates and arrange payments through Utility Bill Payment. If you pay in cash, use city drop boxes; then call RRVCA to see if Energy Share can free up funds for water. (grandforksgov.com)

FAQs (North Dakota, 2025)

  1. How much can LIHEAP lower my heating bill this season?
    North Dakota adjusted calculations so approved households generally pay no more than about 6% of income toward heat; the state pays the rest directly to your fuel vendor. This varies by household size, income, fuel type, and usage. See ND HHS news release and apply at LIHEAP. (hhs.nd.gov)
  2. Can LIHEAP help with cooling or an air conditioner?
    If you’re LIHEAP‑approved, ask your local Community Action about limited cooling assistance for devices/repairs during extreme heat; availability varies by funding. Start at LIHEAP — ND HHS and your regional CAP office. (hhs.nd.gov)
  3. My power is off now—what can I do today?
    Call your utility to request same‑day reconnection with a down payment and a plan. Ask your CAP agency about an Energy Share pledge, and call the PSC to mediate a temporary hold. Apply at LIHEAP and upload the shutoff notice. (psc.nd.gov)
  4. Is there a winter shutoff ban in North Dakota?
    No statewide moratorium. You have rights to notice, to request a 30‑day delay for elderly/disabled/medical households, and to set a payment plan. See PSC rules and the LIHEAP Clearinghouse state summary. (law.cornell.edu)
  5. What if I heat with propane or fuel oil?
    LIHEAP covers deliverable fuels; upload your vendor bill to LIHEAP and ask your vendor to coordinate with the state. Keep your tank status documented (photos/receipts). (hhs.nd.gov)
  6. Can Community Action pay my whole electric bill?
    Energy Share usually pays a portion and requires your LIHEAP approval and a payment plan for the balance. Learn more at RRVCA Energy Share or SENDCAA Utility Assistance. (rrvca.com)
  7. I’m a renter—can I get help with past‑due water/sewer or heat bills?
    Yes. Apply for LIHEAP for heating costs and set up a plan with your city’s water billing office (Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks). (hhs.nd.gov)
  8. Does North Dakota still have rental/utility assistance from the pandemic funds?
    Most broad rent/utility aid has wound down in 2025, though some housing stabilization supports continue in limited forms (priority to households already in the pipeline). Ask about current status at ND HHS Re‑Housing Assistance. (hhs.nd.gov)
  9. How do I get internet help now that ACP is gone?
    Apply for Lifeline and ask your provider about low‑income plans; search participating carriers at Companies Near Me. (lifelinesupport.org)
  10. Where do I complain if a utility won’t work with me?
    Start with the PSC Consumer Info line. If you suspect scams or unfair practices, contact the ND Attorney General — Consumer Protection. (psc.nd.gov)

About appeals, complaints, and your rights

  • Appeal LIHEAP decisions: Use the SFN 162 form on LIHEAP — ND HHS. Keep copies and send by email with your case number. (hhs.nd.gov)
  • File a utility complaint: Call or email the PSC. They often delay disconnection while they review, if you’re acting in good faith. (psc.nd.gov)
  • Get legal help: Call Legal Services of ND to review denials or shutoffs; seniors can use the 60+ line. (lsnd.org)

Spanish summary (resumen en español)

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique cada programa con las oficinas oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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 only and is not legal advice or an official agency notice. Program rules, funding levels, and wait times change. Always confirm current eligibility and availability with the program before you apply. If you’re facing an imminent shutoff, contact your utility and the North Dakota Public Service Commission right away, then apply to LIHEAP and contact your local Community Action office. (hhs.nd.gov)

Quick “Plan B” recap if things stall

Above all: call early, set a plan, and get your application in the same day.

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