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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Oklahoma

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Oklahoma: The 2025 No‑BS Survival Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you clear, step‑by‑step actions to keep your power, gas, and water on in Oklahoma. Every program and organization mentioned below is linked so you can click straight to the source. Funding comes and goes. Always check the official site or call before you spend time applying.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Oklahoma Today

Top action now: Call your utility, then apply for ECAP if you have a real shutoff risk. Combining both gives you legal protections and buys time.

  • Tell your utility you’re applying for aid: Under Oklahoma rules, regulated electric and gas companies must delay disconnection at least 20 days when you show you’ve applied for help and agree to a payment plan. If the National Weather Service forecast shows a heat index of 101°F or higher or temperatures below 32°F, disconnections must be suspended that day. Ask the agent to note your account and request a text/email confirming the hold. Use OCC’s rule summary when needed. (oklahoma.gov)
  • Apply for ECAP (crisis LIHEAP) online: Go to OKDHSLive and choose Energy Crisis Assistance. ECAP covers the minimum to resolve a cut‑off notice, required deposit to restore service, or prepaid balance below 25;thecapis25; the cap is 750 per federal fiscal year. Upload ID, SSNs, income proof, and your latest bill. For a life‑threatening medical situation (oxygen concentrator, dialysis, etc.), call 1-405-522-5050 for a same‑day referral. (oklahoma.gov)
  • If the utility still schedules shutoff: File a complaint with OCC Consumer Services and include your ECAP case number or receipt; ask OCC to mediate and to apply the “financial assistance delay.” If you’re on municipal water (city utilities), OCC doesn’t regulate them; call your city water office and request a payment arrangement, and then call 2‑1‑1 for local funds. Use City of Tulsa Utilities payment arrangements or City of OKC Utilities H2O. (oklahoma.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your doctor for a utility “medical certificate” to stop disconnection for 30 days while you set up payments; regulated utilities must honor properly completed certificates. Then call Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma for an urgent consult and keep applying for charity funds like Light a Life (PSO) and Share the Warmth (ONG). (regulations.justia.com)

Statewide Programs That Pay Energy Bills

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Heating, Cooling, and Crisis

LIHEAP helps with winter heating and summer cooling bills, and ECAP handles crisis situations. Apply online at OKDHSLive; review open dates and processing details at Oklahoma Human Services LIHEAP page; confirm benefit levels at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse Oklahoma profile. For July 2025, Oklahoma announced online enrollment for summer cooling and reminded that some households are pre‑authorized. (oklahoma.gov)

  • Eligibility basics: 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL); you must be responsible for the home energy bill. Only one payment per household per component (heating, cooling, crisis). Check current income guidelines during each enrollment window. See the LIHEAP Clearinghouse profile and OKDHS announcements. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • Benefit amounts (FY2025): Heating 40–40–500; Cooling 150–150–650; Crisis up to $750 total per fiscal year (includes life‑threatening assistance). Processing for non‑crisis applications can take up to 60 calendar days. Always apply early and keep paying if you can. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • How the year is scheduled (anticipated FFY2025): Winter Heating opened Dec 17, 2024; ECAP opened Apr 15, 2025; Summer Cooling opened Jul 15, 2025, and closed when funds were spent. Check for the red “Apply for Energy Assistance” banner at OKDHSLive. (oklahoma.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds are exhausted, pivot to utility charity funds (below) and city programs like OKC H2O, request an OCC‑mediated payment plan with your power/gas utility via OCC Consumer Services, and call 2‑1‑1 for short‑term charity help. (okc.gov)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Cut Bills for Good

WAP pays for insulation, air sealing, and repairs that lower your bill long‑term. Oklahoma’s WAP is delivered by local Community Action Agencies and coordinated by the Department of Commerce; you can apply through the state’s portal and find contact help. Start at Oklahoma WAP info (OKDHS/ODOC), submit online via ok.mywaplink.org, and learn the basics at U.S. DOE’s WAP page. (oklahoma.gov)

  • Who qualifies: Typically up to 200% of FPL or households that already qualify for LIHEAP; renters may qualify through DOE WAP (landlord permission needed), but note that LIHEAP‑funded weatherization in Oklahoma prioritizes owner‑occupied homes. Use the DOE WAP guide and the state’s policy note to understand eligibility. (energy.gov)
  • Timing: Expect a waitlist. You’ll get an energy audit first, then scheduled work like attic insulation, duct sealing, and weather‑stripping. Some utilities also fund no‑cost weatherization upgrades, such as OG&E’s Weatherization Program (income ≤ $60,000) and utility efficiency programs. (oge.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use your local Community Action Agency’s program finder at OKACAA Agency Map, ask about winterization or minor home repair, and call your power utility’s efficiency program (e.g., OG&E Weatherization) for a parallel path. (okacaa.org)

Quick Table — State Energy Help At‑A‑Glance

Program Who runs it What it pays When to apply Where to apply
LIHEAP Heating Oklahoma Human Services 40–40–500 toward primary heating Winter window (Dec–Jan typical) OKDHSLive
LIHEAP Cooling Oklahoma Human Services 150–150–650 toward cooling Summer window (July) OKDHSLive
ECAP (Crisis) Oklahoma Human Services Up to $750 to resolve shutoff/deposit Mid‑April–funds exhausted; medical crisis year‑round OKDHSLive
Weatherization (WAP) Dept. of Commerce + CAAs Insulation, air sealing, repairs Year‑round; waitlists common ok.mywaplink.org

Sources: OKDHS LIHEAP page, LIHEAP Clearinghouse OK, OKDHS ECAP notice 4/15/25, DOE WAP. (oklahoma.gov)

Electric and Gas Utility Programs Single Moms Actually Use

OG&E (Oklahoma Gas & Electric)

  • Monthly low‑income credit: OG&E’s Low‑Income Assistance Program (LIAP) gives $13/month off after you qualify for LIHEAP. See eligibility and apply through OG&E Financial Assistance, then confirm LIHEAP at OKDHSLive. (oge.com)
  • Charity fund: OG&E Lend‑a‑Hand is run with The Salvation Army (call 1-405-840-0735 to find your local office). OG&E also sponsors “Cool Zones” and seasonal fan drives. Call customer care at 1-405-272-9741 (OKC) or 1-800-272-9741 (statewide). (oge.com)
  • Scam warnings and safe ways to pay: Use OG&E’s official numbers and online portal or app. The utility lists the approved payment lines and reminds customers they will not demand prepaid cards. Review OG&E scam guidance. (oge.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a deferred payment plan, then call OCC Consumer Services with your account notes, and apply for ECAP at OKDHSLive. (oklahoma.gov)

PSO (Public Service Company of Oklahoma)

  • Charity fund: PSO Light a Life is administered by The Salvation Army statewide; Tulsa County applications can be filed online from the PSO page. See PSO’s Payment Assistance hub for extensions, arrangements, and prepaid “PowerPay.” (psoklahoma.com)
  • Rates context: PSO’s rate review approval in January 2025 kept interim rates from Oct 2024; the typical residential bill increased about $12/month at 1,100 kWh, offset by prior fuel cost reductions. Use PSO’s page to understand bill changes. (psoklahoma.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask PSO for a payment arrangement, apply for ECAP at OKDHSLive, and if you hit a wall, file with OCC Consumer Services. (psoklahoma.com)

Oklahoma Natural Gas (ONG)

  • Charity fund: Share the Warmth (Salvation Army‑administered) assists with winter heating for households in ONG service counties. Apply at your nearest Salvation Army site. (oklahomanaturalgas.com)
  • Protections: During severe weather and medical emergencies, gas shutoffs follow the same OCC rules (heat index ≥101°F; forecast below 32°F; 20‑day delay with proof you’ve applied for aid). If needed, submit a doctor’s certificate to your utility. (law.cornell.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get on an ONG payment plan, apply for ECAP at OKDHSLive, and contact OCC Consumer Services if disconnection proceeds. (oklahoma.gov)

Table — Utility Provider Programs

Utility Low‑income credit Charity fund Payment options
OG&E $13/mo LIAP (after LIHEAP) Lend‑a‑Hand Extensions, arrangements, average billing
PSO Case‑by‑case Light a Life Extensions, arrangements, prepaid “PowerPay”
ONG N/A credit; crisis help via ECAP Share the Warmth Payment plans/arrangements

Sources: OG&E assistance, PSO assistance, ONG Share the Warmth. (oge.com)

City Water Bill Help (Where Single Moms Most Often Qualify)

Oklahoma City Water Bill Help

  • Help 2 Others (H2O): The City gives funds to The Salvation Army to help OKC water customers; call 1-405-246-1100 for intake. Review documents you’ll need and set payment arrangements through My OKC Utilities. Ask about the Reduced Trash Rate if your income meets federal poverty guidelines. (okc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 for other agencies; if disconnection is imminent, apply for ECAP at OKDHSLive. (oklahoma.gov)

Tulsa Water Bill Help

  • Payment plans and support: Call 311 or 1-918-596-2100 to spread past‑due balances over three months, and use the IVR at 1-918-596-9511 for phone payments. City materials still reference LIHWAP from 2023; funding is exhausted, so focus on payment arrangements and call 211 Eastern Oklahoma for financial assistance partners (also see Tulsa utilities page). (cityoftulsa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Restore Hope Ministries (Tulsa County) and Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma for utility help slots; continue paying what you can. (restorehope.org)

Lawton Water Bill Help

  • Customer service: Manage payments online, by phone (1-580-581-3308), or at the utility office. Use the city’s payment portal and phone instructions on the website. For infrastructure context (doesn’t change eligibility but explains projects), see recent OWRB funding releases. (lawtonok.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and Catholic Charities Lawton office (select Lawton location) for assistance appointments. (catholiccharitiesok.org)

Norman Water Bill Help

  • Income‑Based Utilities Assistance: Norman offers an income‑based program; take the notarized application to Customer Service (225 N. Webster Ave). For general billing help call 1-405-366-5320; see Utility rates & information. (normanok.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Try 2‑1‑1, your local Community Action Agency via OKACAA map, and file ECAP at OKDHSLive. (okacaa.org)

Know Your Rights: Oklahoma Shutoff Protections That Matter

  • Extreme weather holds: Regulated electric utilities must suspend disconnections during forecast heat index ≥101°F or when forecast includes temperatures below 32°F in the next 24 hours. Utilities check NWS forecasts between 6–8 a.m. and must use updated forecasts that day. Gas rules are comparable. (regulations.justia.com)
  • Financial assistance delay (20 days): If you’ve applied for help (federal, state, local), the utility must delay disconnection at least 20 days and may require a payment plan. Keep proof of your application (screenshots, case number). (regulations.justia.com)
  • Medical certificate (30 days): If someone in your home relies on life‑sustaining equipment (e.g., oxygen concentrator) or heating/cooling is medically necessary, your doctor can certify a 30‑day hold. Ask your utility for the “medical certificate” form. (regulations.justia.com)

If your power or gas is still threatened, call OCC Consumer Services right away to mediate and enforce these rules. (oklahoma.gov)

Required Documents — What to Gather Before You Apply

Bring or upload clear photos. Black out full account numbers except last 4 when emailing.

  • Government photo ID, Social Security numbers for household, and your most recent utility bill showing your name and service address. Use OKDHSLive Fast Pass upload for LIHEAP, and follow OKC H2O docs list for city water. (oklahoma.gov)
  • Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs, child‑support, TANF letters, SSI/SSDI awards). Check LIHEAP income rules at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • Shutoff notice, deposit or reconnection letter, or prepaid balance screenshot for ECAP; medical note if you need life‑threatening crisis help. See ECAP criteria. (oklahoma.gov)

County‑By‑County: Community Action Agencies (CAAs) Are Your Local Backbone

Community Action Agencies run utility aid, weatherization, and emergency help by county. Use the official map to find the office covering your county, hours, and how to apply. Start at OKACAA Agency Map, learn about programs at OKACAA Programs, and call 2‑1‑1 for current openings. Funding is tight and first‑come in many counties. (okacaa.org)

Real example: A mom in Bryan County found LIHEAP cooling closed but got a three‑month water payment plan with her city plus help from a CAA‑coordinated church fund referred by 2‑1‑1. She then applied for WAP to lower bills long‑term. (oklahoma.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Resources by Region (Fast Contacts)

Region Power/Gas programs Water department Local charities
OKC Metro OG&E assistance, ONG Share the Warmth OKC Utilities H2O 1-405-297-2833 Upward Transitions, Catholic Charities OKC
Tulsa Metro PSO Light a Life, ONG Share the Warmth City of Tulsa Utilities 311 or 1-918-596-2100 Restore Hope, Catholic Charities Eastern OK
Lawton PSO assistance, ONG programs Lawton Utilities 1-580-581-3308 Catholic Charities (Lawton office)
Norman OG&E assistance, ONG programs City of Norman Utilities 1-405-366-5320 Legal Aid (Norman office)

(oge.com)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Trusted Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: For affirming help and referrals, tap Oklahomans for Equality (Tulsa Equality Center), Freedom Oklahoma resource hub, and Diversity Center of Oklahoma. If you need a safe, private referral, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for LGBTQ‑affirming agencies. Utility aid is eligibility‑based; you qualify by income and crisis, not orientation or identity. (okeq.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Ask your utility to flag your account for medical vulnerability and submit a doctor’s certificate to stop disconnection for 30 days. For coordinated support, contact Oklahoma Human Services LIHEAP (life‑threatening crisis) 1-405-522-5050, request WAP modifications via ok.mywaplink.org, and call Legal Aid if a shutoff threatens a disability‑related device. Ask agencies for large‑print documents and TTY or relay services when needed. (regulations.justia.com)

Veteran single mothers: Ask SSVF providers for emergency utility assistance and deposits. Start with Oklahoma Veterans United – SSVF, the OKC VA homeless services info line 1-405-456-1710, and Legal Aid (military resources). Then apply for ECAP at OKDHSLive. (okvetunited.org)

Immigrant or refugee single moms: You can apply for city water help and utility charity funds regardless of religion. For case management and help completing forms, use Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma or Catholic Charities OKC. Ask for language access and interpreter services (phone or in‑person). (cceok.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: If your household includes a member of a federally recognized tribe, you can receive LIHEAP from either the state or your tribal nation (not both for the same component in the same fiscal year). Start with the LIHEAP Tribal Benefits directory, then contact your tribe’s human services for energy aid (examples: Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Choctaw Nation, Muscogee Nation, Citizen Potawatomi Nation). If state LIHEAP is closed, your tribal program may still be open—call to confirm. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Rural single moms on co‑ops: Many co‑ops don’t fall under OCC rate regulation, but they often run “Operation Round Up” grant funds for families in crisis. Check your co‑op’s site (examples: Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative ORU, Tri‑County Electric ORU, Lake Region Electric ORU). Ask member services for utility bill hardship grants or referrals. (noec.coop)

Single fathers: All programs here are based on income, household size, and crisis. If you’re the account holder, you can apply just like any parent. Use OKDHSLive and OCC if shutoff is scheduled. (oklahoma.gov)

Language access tips: When you call 2‑1‑1 or Oklahoma Human Services, ask for an interpreter. City water offices and legal aid also offer interpreter services—ask for documents in your preferred language or large print. (oklahoma.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Waiting for final shutoff day to apply. Apply at OKDHSLive and call your utility as soon as you get a past‑due notice. Late applications can be denied if funds run out. Check the Oklahoma Human Services LIHEAP page for open dates and the “up to 60 days” processing note for non‑crisis programs. (oklahoma.gov)
  • Not asking for protections you qualify for. Ask about the severe‑weather hold, the 20‑day “financial assistance delay,” and medical certificate options under OCC rules. Share the OCC guidance with the agent. (oklahoma.gov)
  • Skipping city water payment plans. Cities aren’t regulated by OCC. You must call your city water office to set up arrangements—use Tulsa Utilities or OKC Utilities H2O. (cityoftulsa.org)

Reality Check: Delays, Denials, and Funding Droughts

  • LIHEAP windows close fast. Oklahoma posts target open dates and closes when funds run out—this can be days, not weeks. Watch for the red banner on OKDHSLive and announcements on the OKDHS newsroom. (oklahoma.gov)
  • Non‑crisis processing can take up to 60 days. Plan to keep paying something to avoid shutoff while your file is under review. This is spelled out on the Oklahoma LIHEAP page. (oklahoma.gov)
  • ACP internet discount ended in 2024. Don’t rely on the Affordable Connectivity Program; it stopped in spring 2024 unless Congress renews funding. Instead, check FCC Lifeline for a 9.25/mophone/internetdiscount(upto9.25/mo phone/internet discount (up to 34.25 on Tribal lands) and the USAC company finder. (fcc.gov)

Step‑by‑Step: Applying for LIHEAP/ECAP

  • Go to OKDHSLive and select “Energy Assistance.” Upload your ID, SSNs, income proof, and your utility bill. If you’re in a life‑threatening crisis, call 1-405-522-5050 for a medical referral first. Then call your utility to log that you applied. See OKDHS LIHEAP page for open dates.
  • If you belong to a federally recognized tribe, you can apply with the state or your tribe (not both for the same component). Check the LIHEAP Tribal Benefits directory for your nation’s program.
  • Keep proof of your application (screenshots, emails). If your power company is regulated, ask for the 20‑day “financial assistance delay” while your case is processed (OAC 165:35‑21‑10). Share the OCC rule. (oklahoma.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal and reapply next window, and in the meantime use city programs (OKC H2O), utility charities (Light a Life), and 2‑1‑1 referrals. (okc.gov)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Ask for the reason in writing. If it’s missing documents, upload them the same day via OKDHSLive. If it’s income, check if your count includes only household members “under the same roof” using the same meter.
  • Request a fair hearing quickly. You generally have 30 calendar days from the denial notice to request a hearing with Oklahoma Human Services; ask about expedited hearings if your health or safety is at risk. See agency hearing guidance and appeals rules under OAC 340:2‑5‑114 (hearing request). If power shutoff is imminent, call OCC Consumer Services to mediate while your appeal is pending. (oklahoma.gov)
  • Get legal help: Apply at Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma 1-888-534-5243 (Mon–Thu), or use the Oklahoma Access to Justice “Get Help” hub. Keep your shutoff notice and health documentation handy. (legalaidok.org)

“Reality Check” Boxes

  • Extreme‑heat and hard freezes happen here. You can ask for same‑day holds if the forecast meets OCC thresholds (heat index ≥101°F; forecast below 32°F). Utilities must check morning NWS forecasts and use updates that day. Show them the rule if needed. OCC severe weather notice. (oklahoma.gov)
  • City water is different. OCC can’t force cities to delay disconnection. You must call your city utility for payment arrangements and apply for local funds like OKC H2O or charity help via 2‑1‑1. (okc.gov)
  • Funding is not guaranteed. Oklahoma’s LIHEAP and city/charity funds close when money runs out. Watch OKDHSLive for banners, apply early, and keep partial payments going to avoid shutoff fees. (oklahoma.gov)

Co‑ops and Rural Areas: Operation Round Up and Local Options

If you’re served by an electric cooperative, ask member services about “Operation Round Up” grants or emergency funds. Programs and deadlines vary; examples include Northeast Oklahoma Electric Cooperative ORU, Tri‑County Electric ORU, and Lake Region Electric ORU. Many co‑ops will connect you to local churches or county programs when utility funds are tight. (noec.coop)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 for the nearest charity that pays directly to your utility, and apply for WAP to permanently lower usage. (energy.gov)

Quick Tables You Can Reference

Table — Shutoff Rule Essentials (Regulated Electric/Gas)

Protection What it means How to use it
Severe weather No disconnects when forecast heat index ≥101°F or forecast below 32°F in next 24 hours Cite OCC rule; ask utility to check NWS now
Financial assistance delay 20‑day delay if you applied for aid and will enter a payment plan Give case number; email confirmation to yourself
Medical certificate 30‑day hold when doctor certifies life‑threatening risk Ask utility for the form; submit quickly

Source: OCC rule OAC 165:35‑21‑10 and OCC notice. (regulations.justia.com)

Table — Documents You’ll Need (Most Programs)

Item Where it matters Tips
ID + SSNs LIHEAP/ECAP, city/charity Upload to OKDHSLive Fast Pass; redact full SSNs when emailing
Bill/notice Utilities, LIHEAP/ECAP Include shutoff date or deposit letter
Income proof LIHEAP/ECAP Use last 30 days; check LIHEAP income basics
Medical note OCC medical certificate, ECAP life‑threatening Ask clinic to fax to utility

(oklahoma.gov)

Table — City Water Programs Snapshot

City Payment arrangements Aid partner
Oklahoma City Call 1-405-297-2833 or use online account H2O via Salvation Army 1-405-246-1100
Tulsa Call 311 or 1-918-596-2100; IVR pay 1-918-596-9511 211 Eastern Oklahoma for referrals
Lawton Call 1-580-581-3308; in‑person options City site (utilities)

(okc.gov)

FAQs (2025)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Para ayuda oficial, use los enlaces estatales.

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.

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.

Disclaimer

This content is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Program rules and funding change. Before you decide, verify details directly with the agency or utility linked here, call to confirm availability, and consider speaking with an attorney through Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma if your situation involves a shutoff, eviction, or appeal. (legalaidok.org)

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