Help Available to Keep Utilities from Being Shut Off

Posted April 01, 2022
Although New Jersey’s moratorium for utility shutoffs ended on Mar 15, legislation was signed into law that provides a 60-day grace period if customers apply for aid. Click here for information about the Utility Assistance Program from the NJ Division of Housing and Community Resources.
 
Additional Resources:
 
  • USF (Universal Service Fund): Provides up to $180 in monthly credits for moderate-income families. A family of four earning up to $105,000 can qualify for USF assistance. A customer enrolled in USF can be included in the Fresh Start program which provides forgiveness of past-due balances. Customer must owe $60 or more to be enrolled and must pay their current bills for one year.
     
  • LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): A family of four earning $6,436 monthly or less should apply for LIHEAP
     
  • PAGE (Payment Assistance for Gas and Electric) for low to moderate-income families/residents. Customer(s) must have a past due of $100 or greater on electric and/or gas bills.
     
  • Lifeline Credit Program/PAAD (Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled): Provides a $225 yearly credit for customers 65 years old or disabled adults who receive a Social Security Disability benefit. Customer income must not exceed $38,769 if single or $45,270 if married.
     
  • Fresh Start: This initiative may provide debt forgiveness if a customer pays the current bill for one year.
     
PSE&G is partnering with social service agencies to provide energy assistance information at the following PSE&G customer service centers through June 30, 2022:
 
  • North Bergen: 5665 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
     
  • Jersey City: 35 Journal Square Suite #2, near Newkirk Street & Bergen Ave., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
     
  • Bayonne: 608 Broadway, Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.