Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Rhode Island
Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Rhode Island
Last updated: September 2025
This hub is built for busy Rhode Island moms who need clear steps, real phone numbers, and links that actually work. Every program and organization mentioned below is linked right where you need it. Keep this page open while you call and apply.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call for shutoff protection now: Ask for “protected status,” a medical protection, or a payment plan with Rhode Island Energy at 1-855-743-1101, and note the statewide winter shutoff moratorium through May 1 under PUC Rules 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1; if the utility won’t work with you, request an informal hearing from the Division of Public Utilities at 1-401-780-9700. (rienergy.com)
- Apply for crisis heating help today: Submit a Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application online using the state portal via RI DHS LIHEAP, or call your local Community Action Program (CAP) listed below; if you’re in Providence, start at CAPP’s LIHEAP page. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Use last‑resort emergency funds if needed: If you’re not LIHEAP‑eligible or the season is closed, ask your CAP about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, and if you’ve tried everything else, call the Diocese’s Keep the Heat On hotline at 1-401-421-7833 x207; dial 2‑1‑1 Rhode Island for a live referral. (unitedwayri.org)
Quick Help — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Rhode Island Energy customer service: 1-855-743-1101 and the utility’s Shut‑Off Protections page; enroll in Discount Rates for 25%–30% off; ask about Budget Billing. (rienergy.com)
- State LIHEAP online application: Apply through RI DHS LIHEAP, read the FFY 2025 income limits, and see the press notice with this year’s grant amounts. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Consumer complaints / hearings: File with the RIPUC Division of Public Utilities (ask for an “informal hearing”) and see the moratorium and protected-status rules in PUC Part 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1; for legal issues, contact the RI Attorney General Consumer Unit at 1-401-274-4400. (ripuc.ri.gov)
- Emergency charity fuel/utility help: Check United Way 2‑1‑1, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, and the Diocese’s Keep the Heat On program. (unitedwayri.org)
- Serious‑illness protections: Have your clinician fax/call the utility and cite PUC rules on serious illness; ask Rhode Island Energy about medical protection and infant‑under‑2 hardship status. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Rhode Island Today
Start with the utility: Call Rhode Island Energy at 1-855-743-1101 and request a no‑money‑down payment plan if you’re actively on service, or ask for the Arrearage Management Program (AMP) with debt forgiveness; if you have a shutoff notice, say so and ask that a collector not be dispatched while you apply. (rienergy.com)
Assert your rights under state rules: During the winter “moratorium,” gas and electric companies have strict limits on shutoffs, and the end date was extended to May 1; read PUC Rules 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1 to see protected categories (serious illness, all adults 62+, disability, LIHEAP households, financial hardship with an infant under 2). (rules.sos.ri.gov)
Escalate quickly if the plan is denied: Ask the Division of Public Utilities for an informal hearing (this usually pauses termination), and call the George Wiley Center at 1-401-728-5555 for advocacy; keep dialing 2‑1‑1 RI to find same‑day fuel or charity help. (ripuc.ri.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: File a written complaint with the PUC/Division, then ask the RI Attorney General to log a consumer complaint at this portal; while the state reviews, apply for LIHEAP crisis help and request AMP enrollment through Rhode Island Energy. (ripuc.ri.gov)
LIHEAP in Rhode Island — What It Pays, Who Qualifies, How to Apply
Most important action: Apply early each season to avoid waitlists. You can submit online through RI DHS LIHEAP, or apply in person at your Community Action agency; read the FFY 2025 income limits. (dhs.ri.gov)
Benefit amounts and dates: For the 2024‑2025 season (applications accepted Oct 1, 2024 through May 1, 2025), RI announced grants ranging from 64to64 to 1,148 for heating, with Winter Crisis assistance up to 1,500;DHSestimatedabout1,500; DHS estimated about 26 million in total funding for households. Confirm exact amounts with your CAP because funding can run out before May 1. (dhs.ri.gov)
Eligibility basics: Income is set at or below 60% of the State Median Income (SMI). You do not need to be on public assistance, have an unpaid bill, or own your home to apply; renters and homeowners can qualify. (dhs.ri.gov)
LIHEAP FFY 2025 Income Limits (Rhode Island DHS)
| Household Size | Monthly Max Income | Annual Max Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,258.42 | $39,101 |
| 2 | $4,261.08 | $51,133 |
| 3 | $5,263.67 | $63,164 |
| 4 | $6,266.33 | $75,196 |
| 5 | $7,268.92 | $87,227 |
| 6 | $8,271.50 | $99,258 |
Source: RI DHS FFY 2025 Low Income Guidelines. Call to confirm current limits if you apply after October 1, 2025. (dhs.ri.gov)
LIHEAP Benefits and Dates (FFY 2025)
| Component | Typical Dates | Max Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heating benefit | Oct 1–May 1 (apply ASAP) | $1,148 | One‑time grant; vendor is paid directly |
| Winter Crisis | Oct 1–May 1 | $1,500 | For shutoff, no heat, broken system, or empty tank |
| Weatherization tie‑in | Year‑round | n/a | Must qualify for LIHEAP first |
Sources: DHS press release and LIHEAP Clearinghouse; amounts can vary by fuel, income, and funding. (dhs.ri.gov)
How to apply step‑by‑step:
- Create/confirm your online account: Use the state LIHEAP portal; if you prefer in‑person help, contact your local CAP; Providence residents can check CAPP’s hours.
- Upload documents in one sitting: DHS notes the portal times out and you must verify your email quickly; many CAPs accept drop‑box document delivery if you can’t upload. See DHS LIHEAP “How to Apply” guidance for tips.
- Ask for crisis processing if you have a shutoff notice: CAPs triage shutoff, no‑heat, or low oil first; CAPP advises to allow 3–5 business days for initial processing and faster for true emergencies. Use DHS LIHEAP and CAPP queue info. (dhs.ri.gov)
Documents you’ll need: Photo ID, Social Security cards for all household members, last 4 weeks of income, lease or mortgage, current utility bill(s), and if claiming crisis, your termination notice or oil/propane slip. See DHS LIHEAP eligibility page and CAPP’s checklist. (dhs.ri.gov)
Normal timeline: Non‑crisis files often take 10–15 business days depending on volume; crisis cases can move within days when documents are complete. Submit early—DHS warns funding is limited each season. Monitor DHS updates and ask your CAP for current queues. (dhs.ri.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Appeal within 15 days using the DHS First Appeal Request (Appendix K); while you wait, ask your utility for AMP and check Good Neighbor Energy Fund and Keep the Heat On for one‑time emergency help. (dhs.ri.gov)
Your Shutoff Protections and Consumer Rights in Rhode Island
Know the winter moratorium: The utility termination moratorium now runs November 1 through May 1. During that time, rules restrict terminations, and extra protections apply for “protected status” customers (LIHEAP recipients, elderly/disabled households, serious illness, financial hardship with an infant under 2). Read the rule in 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1 and call Rhode Island Energy to flag your account. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
Notice and due process matter: Utilities must give at least 10 days’ written notice before shutoff and must offer payment arrangements; you can ask the Division for an informal hearing that generally pauses termination while reviewed. Use the Division’s complaint portal and consider help from the George Wiley Center if you need an advocate. (regulations.justia.com)
Protected groups get extra help: A doctor can certify serious illness by phone and follow up in writing; households with all adults 62+ or a resident with a disability get additional protections; infants under age 2 with financial hardship trigger special rules. Review protections under 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1 and call the utility’s protections line at Rhode Island Energy. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
Quick Reference — Rhode Island Shutoff Protections
| Rule/Status | What It Does | Where to Read/Call |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Moratorium (Nov 1–May 1) | Restricts shutoffs; expands protections | PUC Rule 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1; 1-401-780-9700 |
| Serious Illness | Doctor’s certification blocks shutoff; review every few weeks | PUC Rule – Serious Illness; 1-855-743-1101 |
| “Protected” Customers | LIHEAP, elderly/disabled, infant under 2 with hardship | PUC Rule – Protected Status; RIE Protections |
Note: Rules can change; the PUC updated the moratorium end date to May 1 effective June 23, 2025—always confirm current protections with the Division. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a field collector arrives, show medical or infant documentation and ask them to call dispatch; then call the Division at 1-401-780-9700 and file online at RIPUC “How to File a Complaint”; contact Attorney General Consumer Protection if unfair practices are involved. (ripuc.ri.gov)
Rhode Island Energy Programs That Lower Your Bill
Enroll in the Discount Rate right away: Get 25% off if you’re on SNAP, SSI, or LIHEAP—or 30% off if you’re on Medicaid, RI Works, or Public Assistance—by submitting proof through Rhode Island Energy’s Discount Rates; you can combine this with municipal aggregation like Providence Community Electricity and still keep your percentage discount. (rienergy.com)
Wipe out arrears while you pay: The Arrearage Management Program (AMP) forgives up to $1,500 of past‑due balances per year when you make on‑time installment payments; ask for enrollment at 1-855-743-1104 or via RIE’s Forgiveness Program page. (rienergy.com)
Stabilize your monthly bill: Budget Billing spreads your usage evenly across 12 months so winter spikes don’t crush your budget; enroll through Budget Billing or review Billing Options for accessible/large‑print bills. (rienergy.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a 14‑day short‑term extension or a 3‑installment long‑term extension via Help Making Payments; if denied, call the Division at 1-401-780-9700 and request an informal hearing. (rienergy.com)
Heat System Repair, Weatherization, and Free Efficiency Upgrades
Get your heating system fixed or replaced: If your furnace is unsafe or unrepairable and you qualify for LIHEAP, ask your CAP about the Heating System Repair and Replacement Program (HSRRP) through RI DHS; homeowners can receive a one‑time repair or replacement. (dhs.ri.gov)
Lower bills with Weatherization Assistance: After LIHEAP approval, you may qualify for insulation, air sealing, and health/safety work via WAP at your CAP; East Bay’s program describes no‑cost upgrades like insulation and heating system improvements. (dhs.ri.gov)
Efficiency upgrades for income‑eligible households: Schedule an Income‑Eligible Home Energy Assessment through Rhode Island Energy’s program (call 1-401-351-1800); you may qualify for free insulation, air sealing, and even a no‑cost heat pump if you heat with electric baseboards and have a discount rate. (rienergy.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If waitlists are long, ask your CAP to flag urgent health/safety issues; also check the Energy Efficiency Council for direct program links and updates on no‑cost assessments. (eec.ri.gov)
Clean Heat RI (Heat Pumps) — Extra Help for Low‑ and Moderate‑Income Homes
Know the 2025 update first: On July 24, 2025, Rhode Island added $10 million to Clean Heat RI and prioritized low‑ and moderate‑income households; low‑income projects can still receive up to 100% of costs, and moderate‑income (up to 150% of AMI) can receive up to 60% of project costs after weatherization. Start at Clean Heat RI and ask your CAP to coordinate with WAP. (governor.ri.gov)
Where to start: Take the eligibility survey from Rhode Island Energy’s Income‑Eligible Energy Savings Program, call 1-401-351-1800 to schedule an assessment, and read OER’s Clean Heat RI updates for current incentive rules. (rienergy.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds are paused, ask your municipal or cooperative utility about local rebates—Block Island and Pascoag customers can check Energy New England’s utility rebate pages and Clear River Electric & Water District rebates. (ene.org)
Water and Sewer Bill Help in Rhode Island
LIHWAP ended—here’s the reality: The federal Low‑Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) was a temporary pandemic‑era program that closed by March 31, 2024; funding is no longer available as of December 2024 per HHS/ACF. Focus on payment plans and protections instead. See HHS/ACF LIHWAP page and the federal press update. (acf.hhs.gov)
Use state shutoff protections for water too: The PUC shutoff rules cover residential water service; serious illness, elderly/disabled protections, and notice rules apply across electric, gas, and water. Read 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1 and call your water supplier’s customer service to set a plan. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
Key water providers and contacts (ask for payment plans): For Providence Water call 1-401-521-5070 and see Providence Water Customer Service; for Newport, call 1-401-845-5604 via Newport Water Billing; for Bristol County Water Authority, call 1-401-245-2022 at BCWA Customer Service; Pawtucket’s Water Supply Board is 1-401-729-9050 via PWSB. (provwater.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a water shutoff is pending, cite medical/infant protections from PUC rules and ask the Division for an informal hearing using this contact route; call 2‑1‑1 for any local charity funds. (ripuc.ri.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support
Energy charities that often bridge gaps: Ask your CAP to screen you for the Good Neighbor Energy Fund (serves those just over LIHEAP income), and try the Diocese’s Keep the Heat On for last‑resort emergency oil or utility help; call 2‑1‑1 Rhode Island to find town‑based funds. (unitedwayri.org)
Regional nonprofits that pay a bill in crisis (limited funds): In South County, contact the Jonnycake Center of Westerly at 1-401-377-8069 option 1; in Woonsocket, reach Community Care Alliance Family Support Center; for immigrant families, connect with Progreso Latino in Central Falls. (jonnycake.org)
Advocacy and complaint help: The George Wiley Center can coach you for Division hearings; you can also file with the PUC/Division and the Attorney General Consumer Unit if you believe a utility is not following rules. (georgewileycenter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Rotate calls daily—funds come and go; keep proof that you contacted 2‑1‑1 and your CAP so you can show you tried every avenue while asking the utility to hold termination. (unitedwayri.org)
Resources by Region (Who to Call Near You)
Providence County: Use Community Action Partnership of Providence County (CAPP) for LIHEAP; Blackstone Valley CAP covers Pawtucket/Central Falls; Community Care Alliance serves Woonsocket. For water, see Providence Water and Pawtucket Water. (cappri.org)
Kent County (Warwick/West Warwick/East Greenwich/Coventry): Contact Westbay Community Action for LIHEAP; for water billing and payment plans call Kent County Water Authority. (westbaycap.org)
Newport & Bristol Counties: Apply with East Bay Community Action Program; for water billing call City of Newport Utilities and Bristol County Water Authority. (ebcap.org)
Washington County & Block Island: LIHEAP and weatherization are administered by Tri‑County Community Action; for island residents, check local rebates via Block Island Utility/ENE page. (tricountyri.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re unsure which CAP serves your town, call the state association at RICAA 1‑401‑941‑0774 or dial 2‑1‑1 for a live referral. (ricommunityaction.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting until the last week of the season: LIHEAP can waitlist if funds run low; DHS advised early application for 2024‑25 and set a May 1 deadline—submit as soon as applications open per DHS and press notice. (dhs.ri.gov)
Not asking for AMP forgiveness: Many moms don’t realize the utility will forgive up to $1,500/year in arrears if you enroll and pay installments; read RIE’s AMP details and ask for an enrollment check. (rienergy.com)
Missing medical protection: If there’s a serious illness in the home, a doctor’s call can pause shutoff immediately and must be honored; see PUC rules and RIE shutoff protections. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
Reality Check
Funding and timelines: LIHEAP grants are finite each season; DHS warned of possible waitlists and benefit ranges from 64to64 to 1,148, with crisis up to $1,500—call your CAP to confirm before you count on an amount. Read DHS season notice and LIHEAP Clearinghouse profile. (dhs.ri.gov)
Water‑bill assistance: LIHWAP closed nationally in 2024; any site suggesting it’s open in RI is outdated—focus on payment plans and PUC protections; see ACF LIHWAP page and HHS press advisory. (acf.hhs.gov)
Rates and bill credits change: Delivery and supply rates update seasonally and by docket; watch your city’s aggregation (e.g., Providence Community Electricity), and check the PUC docket pages for current rate cases. (electricity.providenceri.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First Call/Link | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Stop a shutoff | RIE Shut‑Off Protections 1-855-743-1101 | PUC complaint/hearing 1-401-780-9700 |
| Apply for heat help | RI DHS LIHEAP | RICAA – find your CAP |
| One‑time charity grant | Good Neighbor Energy Fund | Keep the Heat On |
| Owe a large balance | RIE Forgiveness/AMP | PUC hearing request |
| Water bill plan | Providence Water, Newport Water | PUC water shutoff rules |
Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)
- Valid photo ID: Use a driver’s license, state ID, or passport; check DHS LIHEAP “How to Apply” and your local CAP for any extra forms; Providence applicants, see CAPP’s checklist. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Social Security cards for all household members: Confirm with DHS LIHEAP; if missing a card, ask your CAP what alternate proof they accept. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Income proof (last 4 weeks): Pay stubs, SSI/SSDI award letter, unemployment, child support; see DHS income limits and your CAP’s instructions. (dhs.ri.gov)
- Lease/mortgage and utility bill(s): Bring current documents; ask your utility for a duplicate bill via RIE billing options; water customers can print bills from Providence Water. (rienergy.com)
- Crisis proof: Shutoff notice, disconnect letter, oil/propane slip, or doctor’s serious‑illness note; read the PUC serious‑illness rule and ask RIE how to submit. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)
Appeal fast and in writing: You have 15 days from the denial to submit the DHS First Appeal Request (Appendix K); keep copies and send by the method your CAP instructs. (dhs.ri.gov)
Stabilize your account during appeal: Enroll in RIE AMP, ask for a short‑term extension, or set up a 3–12 month plan; if the utility won’t budge, request an informal hearing with the Division. (rienergy.com)
Bridge the gap with charity funds: Ask your CAP about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, and if you have denial letters from LIHEAP and GNEF, call Keep the Heat On. (unitedwayri.org)
County‑Specific Notes (Where Programs Differ)
Washington County/Block Island: Tri‑County manages LIHEAP and emergency boiler repair across many southern towns; call the North Kingstown line on Tri‑County’s fuel assistance page and ask about island logistics. (tricountyri.org)
Providence Metro: Providence residents usually file through CAPP; Pawtucket/Central Falls households use Blackstone Valley CAP; Woonsocket files through Community Care Alliance. (cappri.org)
East Bay / Aquidneck Island: EBCAP runs LIHEAP; water billing is handled by Newport Utilities and BCWA; ask each for payment arrangements. (ebcap.org)
Tables — Program Snapshot and Contacts
CAP Agencies by Region (Energy Help)
| Region | Agency | Phone | Start Here |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providence | CAPP | 1-401-273-2000 | LIHEAP Info |
| Pawtucket/Central Falls | Blackstone Valley CAP | 1-401-723-4520 | Call for LIHEAP |
| Woonsocket/N. Smithfield | Community Care Alliance | 1-401-235-7000 | Family Support Center |
| Kent County | Westbay Community Action | 1-401-732-4660 | LIHEAP Heating |
| East Bay / Aquidneck | EBCAP | 1-401-437-1000 | LIHEAP at EBCAP |
| Washington County & Block Island | Tri‑County Community Action | 1-401-351-2750 | Fuel/Boiler Help |
Sources: Agency pages and the RI Community Action Association. (ricommunityaction.org)
Utility Customer Service — Electric, Gas, Water
| Utility | Customer Service | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Energy (electric/gas) | 1-855-743-1101 | Shut‑Off Protections |
| Providence Water | 1-401-521-5070 | Customer Service |
| City of Newport Water | 1-401-845-5604 | Water Billing |
| Bristol County Water Authority | 1-401-245-2022 | Customer Service |
| Pawtucket Water | 1-401-729-9050 | Pay/Contact |
Confirm your local provider through the PUC and your city/town hall if you’re unsure. (provwater.com)
Programs That Lower Your Bill
| Program | Who Qualifies | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP heating + crisis | ≤60% SMI | RI DHS LIHEAP |
| RIE Discount Rate (25%–30%) | SNAP/SSI/LIHEAP = 25%; Medicaid/RI Works/Public Assistance = 30% | Discount Rates |
| Arrearage Management Program (AMP) | Discount‑rate or LIHEAP customers with ≥$300, 60+ days past due | Forgiveness Program |
| Weatherization (WAP) | LIHEAP‑eligible | WAP at DHS |
| HSRRP (heat repair/replace) | Owner‑occupants on LIHEAP | HSRRP |
| Clean Heat RI | Low‑income up to 100% coverage; moderate‑income up to 60% | Clean Heat RI update |
Diverse Communities — Getting the Right Support
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Visit Youth Pride, Inc. for youth and family basics, tap Open Door Health (via RIPHI resources) for inclusive care, and ask your CAP about privacy protections; when calling the utility, request respectful name/pronoun use and point them to RIE Shut‑Off Protections if discrimination impacts access. (youthprideri.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask your clinician to phone in a serious‑illness protection to the utility under PUC rules; request accessible bills and large‑print options via RIE billing solutions; if you need ASL or relay, contact the RI Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (711 relay available). (rules.sos.ri.gov)
Veteran single mothers: For VA healthcare and social work support, call the Providence VA Medical Center at 1-401-273-7100 (Caregiver Support Line 1-855-260-3274), then use RIE AMP and LIHEAP to stabilize utilities. (va.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: CAPs accept many forms of income and ID; ask about interpreters per DHS language access; connect with Refugee Dream Center in Providence and Progreso Latino in Central Falls for case management and letters you might need for energy programs. (dhs.ri.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: The Narragansett Indian Tribe offices (Charlestown) can provide documentation and referrals—call Narragansett Indian Tribe at 1-401-364-1100; also check LIHEAP program info and RIE Discount Rates if you’re utility‑connected. (narragansettindiannation.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: If in Pascoag/Harrisville, ask Clear River Electric & Water District for local rebates, and talk to Tri‑County Community Action about emergency boiler repair; if cell service is spotty, pre‑arrange with RIE for text reminders and extensions. (ene.org)
Single fathers: Programs listed here apply to any income‑eligible household; apply through RI DHS LIHEAP, enroll in RIE Discount Rates, and seek help from United Way 211. (dhs.ri.gov)
Language access and TTY: DHS provides interpretation upon request per DHS LIHEAP language note; use 711 relay via RICDHH/Hamilton Relay; RIE can provide accessible/large‑print bills—see Billing Options. (dhs.ri.gov)
Real‑World Examples
Example 1 — Shutoff today, infant at home: You call RIE shutoff protections, tell them there’s a baby under 2 and financial hardship, and request infant protection; clinician sends serious‑illness certification under PUC rules; you file LIHEAP crisis online same day. (rienergy.com)
Example 2 — Denied for income, just over LIHEAP: Your CAP screens you for the Good Neighbor Energy Fund; the fund helps when income is above LIHEAP but still facing a temporary crisis; you also enroll in RIE Discount Rates and Budget Billing. (unitedwayri.org)
Example 3 — Propane furnace failed mid‑season: You’re LIHEAP‑approved; your CAP requests HSRRP through DHS; while waiting, you apply for Clean Heat RI and ask RIE for a short extension. (dhs.ri.gov)
FAQs (Rhode Island‑Specific)
How quickly can crisis LIHEAP help if I have a shutoff notice: CAPs prioritize true emergencies and may process in days if paperwork is complete; file online via DHS LIHEAP, call your CAP to flag crisis, and ask RIE to hold disconnection. (dhs.ri.gov)
Can my power be shut off in winter: The winter moratorium protects most homes from Nov 1 to May 1 with added protections for vulnerable households; see PUC rules and call the Division if you receive a notice anyway. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
What if I’m over LIHEAP income by a little: Ask your CAP about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund (up to ~300% FPL, amounts vary) and enroll in RIE Discount Rates if you qualify through Medicaid/RI Works; call 2‑1‑1 for town funds. (unitedwayri.org)
How does AMP forgiveness work: If you’re on the discount rate or LIHEAP with 300+overduefor60+days,the∗[RIEForgivenessProgram](https://www.rienergy.com/site/ways−to−save/assistance−programs/forgiveness−program)∗forgivesupto300+ overdue for 60+ days, the *[RIE Forgiveness Program](https://www.rienergy.com/site/ways-to-save/assistance-programs/forgiveness-program)* forgives up to 1,500 per year while you make on‑time installments. (rienergy.com)
Is there still help for water bills: Federal LIHWAP ended by March 31, 2024; ask your water provider about payment plans and use PUC protections; see ACF LIHWAP notice and call the Division if you get a shutoff notice. (acf.hhs.gov)
Where do I check income limits for 2025: DHS publishes the chart; see FFY 2025 LIHEAP limits and confirm with your CAP if applying late in the season. (dhs.ri.gov)
Can I get a free heat pump: Under Clean Heat RI, low‑income projects can be covered up to 100% if weatherization is done; see the July 24, 2025 OER update and RIE income‑eligible program. (governor.ri.gov)
Who can help me file a complaint if the utility won’t help: Request an informal hearing with the Division and call the George Wiley Center for free advocacy; in some cases, also notify the Attorney General. (ripuc.ri.gov)
Does the discount rate apply if I’m in a city electricity program: Yes; Providence Community Electricity confirms low‑income A‑60 discounts continue across the whole bill. (electricity.providenceri.gov)
Where can veterans get extra support: Contact the Providence VA Medical Center for social work and caregiver support, then stabilize bills with RIE AMP and LIHEAP. (va.gov)
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español
Esta es una guía rápida para servicios públicos en Rhode Island. Solicite LIHEAP en línea vía DHS – LIHEAP, llame a Rhode Island Energy – Protecciones de corte al 1‑855‑743‑1101 para un plan de pago o AMP, y marque 2‑1‑1 Rhode Island para ayudas de emergencia como Good Neighbor Energy Fund o Keep the Heat On. Si recibe un aviso de corte, pida una audiencia informal con la División de Servicios Públicos. Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las oficinas oficiales. (dhs.ri.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- RI Department of Human Services – LIHEAP
- RI DHS – FFY 2025 Income Limits
- RI Public Utilities Commission – Termination Rules 810‑RICR‑10‑00‑1
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse – Rhode Island Profile
- Rhode Island Energy – Discount Rate & AMP
- United Way of Rhode Island – 211 and Good Neighbor Energy Fund
- Governor/OER – Clean Heat RI Update (July 24, 2025)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide follows our Editorial Standards, uses only official sources, and is updated regularly; it is not legal advice and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Outcomes vary by household and funding. Errors can occur—email info@asinglemother.org for corrections; we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Purpose: This content is for general information to help Rhode Island families find and use utility assistance. No guarantee: Program rules, dates, and amounts change. Your responsibility: Always confirm with the agency or utility and keep copies of what you submit. Safety: If you have a medical risk from loss of heat/power, ask your clinician to call the utility and cite state serious‑illness protections immediately.
Tip: Bookmark DHS LIHEAP, RIE Shut‑Off Protections, and RIPUC complaint portal so you can act fast next time. (dhs.ri.gov)
Notes on accuracy:
- LIHEAP amounts, income limits, and dates reflect state postings and the LIHEAP Clearinghouse as of September 2025; confirm if you apply after those dates. (dhs.ri.gov)
- The winter moratorium end date change to May 1 is from the active PUC regulation effective June 23, 2025. (rules.sos.ri.gov)
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- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
