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Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont

Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont

Last updated: September 2025

This hub gives you fast, Vermont‑specific steps to lower or cover your heat, power, water, phone, and internet costs. Every program, office, and organization we mention is linked so you can click and apply or call right away. Benefit levels, rules, and dates change during the year—always confirm the latest details before you spend time on an application. (dcf.vermont.gov)


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call your utility now and set up a payment plan: For electric call Green Mountain Power at 1-888-835-4672, Burlington Electric at 1-802-865-7300, Vermont Electric Co‑op at 1-800-832-2667, or Washington Electric Co‑op at 1-800-932-5245; for natural gas call Vermont Gas at 1-802-863-4511. Also ask about their discount programs and shutoff protections. If the utility refuses a reasonable plan, call the state consumer hotline at 1-800-622-4496 for help from the Consumer Affairs team at the Vermont Department of Public Service. Use these pages to confirm options: GMP assistance, BED Energy Assistance, VEC contact, WEC home, Vermont Gas assistance, and DPS Consumer Affairs. (greenmountainpower.com)
  • Request a medical hold if anyone is seriously ill: Tell your utility you are getting a physician’s certificate. Vermont rules give a 30‑day shutoff delay (renewable once and capped annually) when a licensed clinician certifies that loss of service would pose an immediate, serious health hazard; you have seven days to get the note in. See PUC Rule 3.300 medical note rules, DPS guidance, and winter disconnect protections. (regulations.justia.com)
  • Apply for Crisis Fuel Assistance immediately if heat is low or a shutoff is pending: Go to your Community Action Agency; if you are elderly, disabled, or have a child under 6, you can also call 1-800-479-6151 on weekends/holidays from late November through early April. Start here: Crisis Fuel Assistance (DCF), SEVCA utilities help, and NEKCA heat & utility assistance. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Vermont Today

Act fast: Call your electric, gas, or water utility the same day you receive a disconnect notice. Ask for a reasonable repayment plan and “budget billing” so your monthly amount is steady and predictable. State rules let you set up plans based on your situation, and if service is off, you can usually reconnect by paying half the past‑due amount up front and arranging payments on the rest over three months. Use the state guidance at DPS disconnection & payment assistance and your utility’s assistance page such as GMP payment options or Vermont Gas billing info. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Know winter and medical protections: From November 1 to March 31, extra steps are required before a winter shutoff; utilities must attempt direct contact and check temperature forecasts, and service to households with someone age 62+ may not be disconnected if the 48‑hour forecast falls below 32°F. Vermont also allows a 30‑day medical hold with a physician’s note, renewable once and capped yearly. Read PUC Rule 3.300 and DPS winter disconnection rules; temperature protections and outreach steps are detailed there. (regulations.justia.com)

Use Vermont‑specific crisis tools: Crisis Fuel Assistance can pay for heat, electricity needed to run your heating system, or negotiate with your utility to avoid shutoff during winter. Apply at your Community Action Agency; if you are elderly or disabled or have a child under 6, you can call 1-800-479-6151 on weekends/holidays late Nov–early Apr. Start at Crisis Fuel (DCF) and your local agency pages like Capstone Crisis Fuel or CVOEO Heating & Utilities. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Department of Public Service Consumer Affairs at 1-800-622-4496 for help negotiating; if that fails, file a consumer complaint with the Public Utility Commission. If you get a wrong decision on a benefit, request a fair hearing with the state’s Human Services Board. Use DPS Consumer Affairs, PUC Consumer Utility Service, and Human Services Board fair hearings. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Reality Check

Expect delays during cold snaps: Community Action lines get slammed and deliveries lag; one agency reported crisis fuel calls doubling in a day. Apply early, keep proof of your fuel level, and call before tanks drop below a quarter. See coverage and agency guidance at VTDigger report, DCF Crisis Fuel page, and BROC Crisis Fuel notes. (vtdigger.org)

Seasonal Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) in Vermont — Eligibility, Benefits, and How to Apply

Apply now; don’t wait for deep winter: Vermont’s Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) helps pay part of your heat whether you own or rent, pay directly or heat is included in rent. Apply through the Fuel Assistance (DCF) page or the MyBenefits portal, and call 1-800-479-6151 if you need a paper application or help. Vermont law sets income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, and the state pays benefits directly to certified fuel dealers. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What you could get: LIHEAP benefits vary by fuel type, past usage, prices, and funds. For FY 2025, Vermont listed a heating benefit ranging approximately from a small minimum to about 1,843max,andaseparatecrisisbenefituptoabout1,843 max, and a separate crisis benefit up to about 1,664. Amounts shift with prices and funding—always confirm before you plan your budget. See the LIHEAP Clearinghouse Vermont profile (updated Mar 20, 2025) and DCF’s news post on 2023–24 averages for context. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Who qualifies: Households at or below 185% FPL (counting only your “fuel household”) may qualify. If you receive 3SquaresVT, SSI, or Reach Up, you’re often on a faster path to proof. Learn details, definitions, and fuel vendor lists at Fuel Assistance (DCF), state statute 33 V.S.A. §2604, and the Vermont Fuel Dealers info hub. (dcf.vermont.gov)

How to apply (quick steps):

  • Gather documents: Photo ID, Social Security numbers, last 30 days of income for all adults, your recent heat/electric bill, and your landlord statement if heat is included in rent. Use Fuel Assistance and MyBenefits for checklists. (dcf.vermont.gov)
  • Submit online or by mail: File through MyBenefits or mail to the DCF Application & Document Processing Center. Addresses and upload tools are on Fuel Assistance. (dcf.vermont.gov)
  • Call your dealer: Once approved, benefits go to a certified dealer on your behalf; confirm your delivery schedule and tank safety. Find certified dealers via Fuel Assistance vendor list and tank rules at the DEC AST page. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Timelines: Seasonal approvals can take a couple of weeks or longer depending on volume; benefits typically issue in late fall after pricing is finalized. Crisis Fuel can be same or next business day once approved, but expect longer waits during storms. Keep calling your Community Action office if your situation changes. Start with Crisis Fuel and your local agency such as SEVCA or BROC for current response times. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If LIHEAP denies your application or sets a benefit you think is wrong, request a fair hearing with the Human Services Board. You can file online or by mail; free legal help is available. Use Human Services Board, Fair Hearing prep guide, and Public Benefits fair hearings. (humanservices.vermont.gov)

Quick Table — LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance) at a Glance

Program Who qualifies Typical benefit range Where money goes
Seasonal Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) Income at or below 185% FPL; renters or owners; heat direct or in rent Variable; FY 2025 examples: about 21minimumto 21 minimum to ~1,843 max; changes by fuel and funding Paid to certified fuel dealer or credited when heat is in rent

Sources: Fuel Assistance (DCF), Vermont LIHEAP profile (Mar 20, 2025), and DCF news context 2023–24. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Crisis Fuel Assistance — Keep the Heat On During Winter

Go in person to your Community Action office: That is the fastest route for approvals and deliveries. Crisis Fuel can purchase your main heating fuel, pay electricity needed to run your heat, or work with your utility to prevent disconnection. Eligible income is up to 200% FPL, and the program runs late November through April. Start at Crisis Fuel (DCF) and check your agency’s instructions at Capstone Crisis Fuel or NEKCA Heat & Utility Assistance. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Use after‑hours hotlines if you qualify: Weekends/holidays, households with a vulnerable member (elderly, disabled, child under 6) can call 1-800-479-6151; regional after‑hours lines also operate during the season. Confirm numbers on DCF Crisis Fuel, CVOEO after‑hours info, and Capstone after‑hours. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Bring the right documents: Proof of last 30 days of income and expenses, a current disconnect notice or delivery slip showing fuel level, and your landlord information if heat is included in rent. Check your agency’s list at BROC Fuel & Utility Assistance, NEKCA heat & utility, and CVOEO Heating & Utilities. (broc.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the agency about the Warmth Program (donation‑funded emergency help across Vermont) and about negotiating payment plans with utilities. If fuel dealers decline delivery due to tank issues, ask about repair resources and weatherization. See Warmth Support (CVOEO), DPS “Where to Get Financial Assistance”, and the Aboveground Storage Tank rules. (cvoeo.org)

Electric Bill Help — Discounts, Credits, and Shutoff Protections

Start with your utility’s income‑based discount:

If you have a GMP disconnect notice: Ask for the Power Partners program—pay 25% of the arrearage, and GMP covers another 25% (up to $1,500) so you can meet the “half down” rule and avoid shutoff. Call GMP before the first disconnect date printed on the notice. Details at VTLawHelp Power Partners and local listings like CVOEO Power Partners info. (vtlawhelp.org)

Other must‑ask options: Budget billing and no‑interest payment plans are standard; ask your rep to propose an amount you can actually keep. Confirm with GMP payment assistance and call 1-888-835-4672 to set up arrangements; co‑ops have similar options via VEC contact and WEC contact. (greenmountainpower.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Involve the Department of Public Service Consumer Affairs at 1-800-622-4496, and use medical holds and winter protections if eligible. File a PUC complaint if unresolved. See DPS Consumer Affairs, PUC Consumer Utility Service, and winter rules overview. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Quick Table — Vermont Electric Bill Discounts

Utility Program Income limit Typical savings How to apply
Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance Program ≤185% FPL 25% off customer and energy charge; one‑time arrearage forgiveness for new enrollees Apply via DCF (Energy Assistance)
Burlington Electric EAP ≤185% FPL 12.5% monthly bill credit Apply with BED form
WEC / VEC ACRE bill credit ≤185% FPL $45/month for 60 months; limited slots Mail ACRE application to DCF per utility instructions

Sources: GMP EAP, DCF Energy Assistance, BED EAP, WEC ACRE. (greenmountainpower.com)

Natural Gas (Vermont Gas Systems) — 20% Discount and Help with Bills

Apply for the Vermont Gas Low‑Income discount: Qualified customers get 20% off monthly natural gas bills at incomes ≤185% FPL. Eligibility is verified by DCF; use one application for the utility discounts. Start with DCF Energy Assistance and VGS assistance programs; call 1-800-775-0516 for the application. (dcf.vermont.gov)

If you’re behind: Set a repayment plan and ask about crisis help through Community Action and the WARMTH fund. See VGS assistance & WARMTH and CVOEO Warmth Support. (vgsvt.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact DPS Consumer Affairs at 1-800-622-4496 to mediate a plan or escalation. Use DPS Consumer Affairs and disconnection guidance. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Water and Sewer Bills — What You Can Do Now

Start with your town’s water office: Most Vermont water and wastewater systems are municipal, not PUC‑regulated. Ask for a payment plan and check your town’s shutoff rules under the Uniform Water & Sewer Disconnect law (notice and hours are set by statute). Learn more via Vermont statute 24 V.S.A. §5145 and Department of Health public water info; Burlington residents can start at Burlington Water Resources. (legislature.vermont.gov)

Know that federal LIHWAP ended in 2024: The temporary pandemic water assistance program is closed in Vermont, so ask your utility for local relief funds, payment plans, and hardship policies. Confirm program status at VT Rural Water LIHWAP update and find DEC contacts at ANR drinking water guidance. (vtruralwater.org)

If you have a private well or failing wastewater system: Check state programs and nonprofit options for testing and repair, including loans and grants. Start at Vermont Department of Health financial assistance and the Vermont Economic Development Authority’s revolving loan info. (healthvermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to locate town‑level aid, faith funds, or local charities that help with water bills, and talk to legal aid if you face a disconnect hearing. Use VT 211, Vermont Legal Aid, and your town’s water office page like Burlington Water. (vermont211.org)

Burlington Water Bill Help

Call and request a plan right away: Burlington Water Resources answers 24/7 at 1-802-863-4501; ask about delinquent balance assistance links and partner programs on their site. Use Burlington Water Resources, Need Help section, and contact page to reach a staffer and set terms you can sustain. (burlingtonvt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a hearing under the town rules and reach out to the Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program for advice on negotiation and scam prevention around supposed “water reconnection fees.” Use AG Consumer Assistance (CAP), AG consumer info, and DPS public involvement page for an overview of who regulates what. (uvm.edu)

Weatherization and No‑Cost Energy Upgrades

Apply for free Weatherization through the state program: If you are on Fuel Assistance or meet income limits, DCF’s Weatherization Assistance Program can add insulation, seal drafts, and tune heating systems at no cost, typically investing around $10,000 per home. Start at DCF Weatherization and learn about Vermont’s expanded state funding at 33 V.S.A. §2502. (dcf.vermont.gov)

New federal rebates rolling out in 2025: Vermont is launching Home Energy Rebates that include no‑cost heat pumps for weatherized low‑income households and partial rebates for moderate‑income families. Follow timelines and income categories at DPS IRA Home Energy Rebates and Efficiency Vermont income‑based offers. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Gas customers: Vermont Gas also funds additional low‑income weatherization rebates and partners with CVOEO for upgrades. See VGS assistance & weatherization and DCF Weatherization. (vgsvt.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Community Action about Energy Coaching and housing repair programs; if your aboveground oil tank is “red‑tagged,” learn what must be fixed before a dealer can deliver. Use DEC AST inspection rules and state rule links like AST regulations. (dec.vermont.gov)

Phone and Internet Savings

Apply for Lifeline (ongoing federal discount): Lifeline lowers the monthly cost of phone or broadband service for qualifying low‑income households. Start at Vermont’s Lifeline page and then apply via USAC. See DPS Lifeline, DPS assistance list, and USAC’s portal linked from the DPS page. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

ACP ended in 2024: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program stopped taking new enrollments in February 2024 and ended benefits in 2024 unless Congress renews funding. Review Vermont’s ACP wind‑down info at DPS ACP update and the FCC ACP page. Ask your provider about low‑income plans while you apply for Lifeline. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check the Vermont Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program for low‑income Deaf/Hard‑of‑Hearing families, and call 2‑1‑1 for local Wi‑Fi and device resources. Use VCIL VTEDP, VT 211, and your provider’s low‑income pages linked from DPS assistance. (vcil.org)

Eligibility — 2025 Income Guide You Can Use Today

This is a quick, Vermont‑specific view of common program thresholds. Always check the application for the exact dollar test that applies to your household.

Household size 185% FPL monthly (for EAP, Fuel Assistance screening)
1 $2,412.71
2 $3,260.63
3 $4,108.54
4 $4,956.46
5 $5,804.38
6 $6,652.29
7 $7,500.21
8 $8,348.13

Source: VTLawHelp — Federal Poverty Guidelines 2025 examples for Vermont programs and agency pages at DCF Energy Assistance and Fuel Assistance. (vtlawhelp.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for the “SafeSpace” support line at the Pride Center of Vermont if you need safety planning while juggling shutoffs, housing, or restraining orders. Advocates can also help you navigate Lifeline and utility options. Use Pride Center SafeSpace contacts, Pride Center resources, and Vermont Network hotlines; for immediate crisis dial 988 or the statewide hotlines listed. (vtnetwork.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for accessible formats, home visits, or phone interviews. The Vermont Center for Independent Living runs the Vermont Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program and a Home Access Program; both can reduce costs and improve safety while you pursue payment plans. Start at VCIL contact, Home Access Program, and VTEDP. (vcil.org)

Veteran single mothers: Call the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs and the SSVF network; utility arrears can sometimes be covered in housing stabilization plans. Use VT Office of Veterans Affairs, Emergency financial help page, and Vets Place SSVF overview. (veterans.vermont.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Benefits like LIHEAP and Crisis Fuel are generally based on income and residence. If language is a barrier, ask for interpretation. Get case‑management help from USCRI Vermont or AALV. Use USCRI Vermont, Burlington legal and immigration services list, and AALV contacts. (women.vermont.gov)

Tribal members: Vermont’s Abenaki tribes are state‑recognized. You can apply for state‑run LIHEAP and utility discounts; ask your tribal office about local food and emergency resources. Contacts include Nulhegan Band, Abenaki Alliance, and elder support numbers listed by International Association for Indigenous Aging (Vermont page). (abenakitribe.org)

Rural single moms with limited service: If coverage is patchy, Lifeline plus local phone options can help, and some communities maintain free public phones or Wi‑Fi hubs. Keep an emergency plan for severe weather and power loss. For connectivity policy updates and rural projects, follow DPS Lifeline and AP coverage on rural communication projects. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Single fathers: Every program above is gender‑neutral. DCF, utilities, and Community Action assist any qualifying household with children. Use Fuel Assistance, Energy Assistance (DCF), and VT 211 to start. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Language access: You can ask for interpreters and translated documents from state agencies and many utilities. When in doubt, call 2‑1‑1 and say your language. Use VT 211, DCF Fuel Assistance, and CVOEO multilingual page. (vermont211.org)

Resources by Region — Who to Call First

Counties Community Action Agency Main numbers Notes
Chittenden, Addison, Franklin, Grand Isle Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO) Chittenden 1-802-863-6248 (Option 2); Addison 1-802-388-2285; Franklin/Grand Isle 1-802-527-7392; after‑hours 1-877-295-7998 Seasonal Fuel, Crisis Fuel, Warmth, utility help
Washington, Orange, Lamoille Capstone Community Action Main 1-800-639-1053; Randolph 1-800-846-9506 Crisis Fuel, Wood Warms, after‑hours/holiday heat help
Caledonia, Orleans, Essex Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA) 1-855-663-5224; after‑hours Crisis Fuel 1-866-331-7741 Heat & utility assistance, outreach centers
Bennington, Rutland BROC Community Action Rutland 1-802-775-0878; Bennington 1-802-447-7515; toll‑free 1-800-717-2762 Fuel & utility assistance; bring 30 days income proof
Windham, Windsor SEVCA Local 1-802-722-4575; toll‑free 1-800-464-9951 Utilities assistance; help with EAP and Power Partners

Sources: CVOEO Heating & Utilities page, Capstone contact, NEKCA heat & utility page, BROC contacts, and SEVCA locations. (cvoeo.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet — Numbers and Links

Need Who to contact Phone
Payment plans, shutoff notices (electric) GMP, BED, VEC, WEC GMP 1-888-835-4672; BED 1-802-865-7300; VEC 1-800-832-2667; WEC 1-800-932-5245
Natural gas Vermont Gas 1-802-863-4511
Energy bill discounts DCF Energy Assistance 1-800-775-0516
Seasonal Fuel (LIHEAP) DCF Fuel Assistance 1-800-479-6151
Crisis Fuel (weekends/holidays eligible) DCF Crisis Fuel 1-800-479-6151
Shutoff mediation DPS Consumer Affairs 1-800-622-4496
Legal help Vermont Legal Aid 1-800-889-2047
Scam reports AG Consumer Assistance Program 1-800-649-2424
24/7 referrals Vermont 2‑1‑1 2‑1‑1

(dcf.vermont.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot and Check Each Box

County‑Specific Notes and Variations

Chittenden/Burlington area: Pair BED’s 12.5% credit with state LIHEAP and VGS’s 20% discount for gas customers; Burlington Water offers payment help and links to partner funds. See DCF Energy Assistance and Burlington Water for contacts and forms. (burlingtonelectric.com)

Northeast Kingdom (Caledonia, Orleans, Essex): NEKCA runs after‑hours crisis lines and can help with metered electric/propane shutoffs; co‑op members may qualify for $45/month ACRE bill credits. Use NEKCA heat & utility and WEC ACRE. (nekcavt.org)

Bennington/Rutland: BROC highlights 30‑day income documentation and asks you to call at one‑quarter tank to avoid “special trip” fees. For power shutoffs, ask about GMP Power Partners. Use BROC Fuel & Utility and VTLawHelp Power Partners. (broc.org)

Windham/Windsor: SEVCA helps with EAP applications and shutoff prevention; call 1-800-464-9951 and ask for Utilities Assistance. Use SEVCA utilities and SEVCA locations. (sevca.org)

“Reality Check” — What to Expect on Timelines and Decisions

Seasonal Fuel approvals: Non‑crisis applications often take a couple of weeks or more; benefits are typically issued to dealers in late fall based on fuel price tables. Check status by calling 1-800-479-6151 and watch the Fuel Assistance page for updates. (dcf.vermont.gov)

ACRE co‑op credits: Washington Electric says DCF review can take about 45 days and space is limited, so apply early; keep paying during review. See WEC ACRE details. (washingtonelectric.coop)

Crisis Fuel during extreme weather: Expect heavy call volume and delivery backlogs; agencies reported call spikes doubling day‑over‑day in winter 2025. Plan ahead and monitor your tank. See VTDigger report. (vtdigger.org)

Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

Ask for the reason in writing and fix what’s fixable: Many denials are missing‑document issues or a misunderstanding about household members or heat included in rent. Use Fuel Assistance guidance and, if needed, resubmit with correct paperwork. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Request a fair hearing: You have the right to appeal DCF decisions. File with the Human Services Board online or by mail; hearings are usually held monthly, and you can ask for phone or video accommodations. Start at Human Services Board and read VTLawHelp’s fair hearing guide. (humanservices.vermont.gov)

Get legal help: Call Vermont Legal Aid or submit an online help request. Use Vermont Legal Aid contacts and VTLawHelp intake. (vtlegalaid.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Faith Communities, and Support Groups

How to Use a Medical Note to Pause a Shutoff

Steps that work:

Tables You Can Screenshot

Table — Winter Disconnection Protections (Electric & Gas)

Protection What it means Where it’s written
Winter period Extra steps required Nov 1–Mar 31 before shutoff PUC Rule 3.304
Forecast checks No shutoff if forecast below 10°F; extra protections at 32°F for 62+ households PUC Rule 3.304 and summaries
Medical certificate 30‑day hold, renewable once; yearly use limits PUC definitions and rules

(regulations.justia.com)

Table — Utility Contacts (Customer Service)

Utility Phone Help page
Green Mountain Power 1-888-835-4672 GMP help
Burlington Electric Dept. 1-802-865-7300 BED Energy Assistance
Vermont Electric Co‑op 1-802-635-2331 or 1-800-832-2667 VEC contact
Washington Electric Co‑op 1-802-223-5245 or 1-800-932-5245 WEC home
Vermont Gas Systems 1-802-863-4511 VGS assistance

(greenmountainpower.com)

Table — Programs and Typical Benefits

Program Benefit Income test
Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) Seasonal heating benefit paid to dealer ≤185% FPL (state rule)
Crisis Fuel Emergency fuel, electric to run heat, and shutoff prevention ≤200% FPL
GMP EAP 25% monthly discount; one‑time arrearage forgiveness for new enrollees ≤185% FPL
BED EAP 12.5% bill credit ≤185% FPL
VGS Low‑Income Discount 20% off gas bill ≤185% FPL
WEC/VEC ACRE $45/month for 60 months (limited slots) ≤185% FPL

Sources: DCF Fuel, DCF Crisis Fuel, DCF Energy Assistance, GMP EAP, and WEC ACRE. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Table — Who Regulates What (So You Know Where to Appeal)

Service Who to call for help Complaint/appeal
Electric & natural gas Department of Public Service Consumer Affairs PUC consumer complaint portal
Municipal water/sewer Your town water/sewer office Town hearing officer; Uniform Disconnect rules
Fuel oil/propane dealers Your dealer; Attorney General CAP for consumer disputes AG Consumer Assistance Program

(publicservice.vermont.gov)

Table — Internet/Phone Savings

Program What it does Where to apply
Lifeline Monthly discount on voice or broadband for low‑income households DPS Lifeline info
ACP (ended) Federal internet subsidy ended in 2024; ask provider about low‑income plans DPS ACP update

(publicservice.vermont.gov)

FAQs — Detailed Answers Single Moms Ask Most

How do I quickly stop a shutoff this week: Call your utility and ask for a reasonable repayment plan; if there’s a serious illness, tell them you’re getting a medical note for a 30‑day hold. Then apply for Crisis Fuel if heat is involved. Use DPS payment help, PUC medical rules, and Crisis Fuel. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

What benefit size should I expect from LIHEAP in 2025: Vermont’s FY 2025 profile shows heating benefits that can range from small minimums to roughly 1,843,withcrisisassistanceuptoabout1,843, with crisis assistance up to about 1,664. These vary with fuel and funding; call to confirm. See LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Vermont (Mar 20, 2025). (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

I rent and heat is included—can I still get help: Yes. Fuel Assistance can credit heat included in rent, and Crisis Fuel may help if your main heat depends on electricity or a metered fuel. Ask your landlord for a statement showing the heat portion. See Fuel Assistance and Crisis Fuel. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Is there help for electric bills if I’m not with GMP: Yes. Burlington Electric offers a 12.5% EAP discount; WEC and VEC offer ACRE bill credits ($45/month for five years) for eligible members. See BED Energy Assistance and WEC ACRE. (burlingtonelectric.com)

How long do approvals take: DCF’s EAP and Fuel Assistance timing depends on volume; plan for a couple of weeks in non‑crisis periods. WEC’s ACRE program notes DCF review may take ~45 days. See Fuel Assistance and WEC ACRE timeline. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Can utilities disconnect me in winter: Yes, but extra steps are required November–March, including outreach and forecast checks; added protections apply for households with a member 62+. Read PUC Rule 3.304. (law.cornell.edu)

Does Vermont help with water bills: Municipal water is handled locally. Ask your town for a payment plan; LIHWAP ended in March 2024. Use town water info via VDHL and LIHWAP update. (healthvermont.gov)

Where do I complain if a utility won’t work with me: Call DPS Consumer Affairs at 1-800-622-4496, then file with the PUC if needed. Use DPS contact and PUC consumer page. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Is there a discount for my phone or internet: Apply for Lifeline (ongoing); ACP ended in 2024 unless Congress renews funding. See DPS Lifeline and DPS ACP update. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

Can scammers target utility customers: Yes. Hang up on callers demanding instant payment and report to the AG’s Consumer Assistance Program at 1-800-649-2424. See GMP scam alert and AG CAP. (greenmountainpower.com)

Real‑World Examples

  • **You get a GMP shutoff notice and owe 600∗∗:YoucallGMP,askforPowerPartners,pay600**: You call GMP, ask for Power Partners, pay 150 (25%), GMP adds another 150(25150 (25%), and you set a plan on the remaining 300. You also apply for GMP’s 25% discount so bills drop going forward. Use VTLawHelp Power Partners and DCF Energy Assistance. (vtlawhelp.org)
  • Your oil tank was “red‑tagged”: The dealer can’t fill it until repairs are made. You apply for Weatherization for safety and efficiency work and ask your Community Action office about repair resources; meanwhile, you plan for wood or electric space heat only if safe. Read DEC AST homeowner rules and DCF Weatherization. (dec.vermont.gov)
  • You heat with metered propane and get a winter shutoff notice: You call Crisis Fuel via your CAA, ask for help negotiating a plan, and bring in bills and a reading. You also use a medical note if needed to pause disconnection while you apply. See Crisis Fuel (DCF) and PUC medical rules. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con las fuentes oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified: September 2025, next review 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 guide is for general information only, tailored to Vermont programs as of September 2025. Program funding, eligibility, and timelines change without notice. Always confirm the latest details with the agency or utility before applying or making payments. For urgent shutoff issues, call your utility and the Department of Public Service Consumer Affairs at 1-800-622-4496, and for emergencies dial 911. Use the state websites linked here for official instructions: DCF benefits, DPS consumer help, and PUC consumer page. (dcf.vermont.gov)

Final tip

Call to confirm current availability before applying: Grant windows, rebate amounts, and discounted‑rate slots fill and change quickly—especially in winter. Check the linked pages and phone numbers in this guide to save time and avoid repeat applications. Use VT 211, DCF benefits, and DPS consumer help as your first verification stops. (vermont211.org)

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