Winter is coming: Utility resources can help keep you warm at home
When temperatures drop, heating your home can become expensive. Many Philadelphia rowhomes are older and can lose heat easily. Older utility systems can also make it harder to keep energy costs down, especially during the winter when homes rely on gas or oil for heat. The good news is that many programs can help residents pay utility bills and stay warm. You may qualify for more than one program, so it is a good idea to apply for every benefit you are eligible to receive.
Utility company assistance programs: Philadelphia’s three major utilities offer special programs for customers who need help paying their bills.
PECO’s Customer Assistance Program includes a Percentage of Income Payment Plan that sets a fixed monthly electric bill based on household income. New participants may also qualify to have past-due balances forgiven. Households must meet income requirements to qualify.
Details: 1-800-494-4000 | www.peco.com/assistance
The Philadelphia Water Department offers special programs for older adults, low-income households and customers facing financial hardship. Its Tiered Assistance Program (TAP) limits water bills to 2%-4% of household income for eligible customers. Payment plans and other assistance options may be available.
Details: 215-685-6300 | water.phila.gov/drops/assistance
Philadelphia Gas Works’ (PGW) – Customer Responsibility Program (CRP) can reduce gas bills by up to 50% for eligible customers with low incomes. Participants pay a lower monthly bill and may have past-due debt forgiven. PGW also offers budget billing and payment assistance for people with special circumstances. These might include medical emergencies or unemployment.
Details: 215-235-1000 | www.PGWorks.com/assistance
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – LIHEAP is Pennsylvania’s main heating assistance program. It provides cash grants to help low-income households pay heating bills. People who are in danger of losing heat may also qualify for crisis grants. Grants range from $200 to $1,000, depending on household size, income and fuel type. Payment is sent directly to the utility company or fuel provider. Applications for the 2026-27 LIHEAP season open on Nov. 2. Philadelphia’s LIHEAP Application Center is located at 1163 S. Broad St. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Details: 215-560-1583 | www.pa.gov (Search for “LIHEAP”)
Utility Emergency Services Fund (UESF) – UESF’s Utility Grant Program helps low-income households that have received a shutoff notice or have already had their utility service disconnected. The program can provide up to $1,250 toward electric bills and up to $3,000 toward water bills through matching funds from PECO and the Philadelphia Water Department.
Details: 215-972-5170 | uesfacts.org/our-programs/utility-grant-program
Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)– ECA offers heating system repairs, energy-saving services and utility assistance. Its 16 Neighborhood Energy Centers can help residents with utility bills, home repairs, weatherization services and budget counseling.
Details: 215-609-1000 | www.ecaSavesEnergy.org
Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians – The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) operates an Emergency Fund for older adults facing a financial crisis after other resources have been exhausted. The program may provide a grant of $150 to $300 or up to 100 gallons of heating oil. Eligible older adults must be referred by a social service agency or member of the clergy. Once a referral is received, PCA can often provide assistance quickly.
To learn more, call PCA’s Helpline at 215-765-9040 or go to www.pcaCares.org/pcas-emergency-fund.
