Not too late to apply for financial help in paying your utility bills

The severe winter we've been having has meant higher utility bills, of course.  For some people, that means worries about how to pay those bills.

The NEICAC Energy Assistance Office is reminding the public that Iowa law says if you have not broken a payment plan in the last 12 months, the utility has to give you a minimum of 12 months to pay off the past due amount.  This is a minimum 12 months not a maximum.  The law also says the utility must take into account the household's ability to pay.

If you need to negotiate a payment plan and you feel that the utility company is not treating you fairly, call the Iowa Utility Board's customer service department at 1-877-565-4450.  The Iowa Utility Board is the state agency that has authority over all Iowa utility companies. 

If you believe you might be eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), there is still time to apply.  Applications are taken through April 30th.  Contact the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation's Energy Assistance Office at 563-382-9608.