According to a Northern Indiana Public Service Company, the state’s moratorium ended March 15 and NIPSCO reminds low-income customers with outstanding balances that a number of assistance programs and payment arrangements are available to help customers with utility bills.

Between Dec. 1 and March 15, natural gas utilities in Indiana do not disconnect service to customers enrolled in the state Energy Assistance Program (EAP) who are delinquent on their home heating bills.

“Fortunately, with gas prices being significantly less this winter heating season we have seen a considerable drop in the amount of customers who have fallen behind on their bill,” Senior Vice President of Customer Engagement for NIPSCO, Guy Ausmus said. “Assistance funds are still available for customers who meet specific income guidelines. But, it is imperative that any customer, regardless of income, call us with bill-payment trouble immediately so we have an opportunity to work together to get the customer the assistance they need or see if they qualify for a payment plan.”

While the overall number of customers receiving state energy assistance dollars has seen little change from last year, the number of customers who have fallen behind on their utility bills has dropped more than 50 percent from last year at this time.

Among the programs available to help customers are, State Energy Assistance Program provides qualifying families with bill and crisis assistance. The maximum amount a household can receive is $715 including a $200 crisis grant. Household income must be at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level.

Winter Warmth Program provides qualifying customers with up to $450 in annual energy assistance. Eligibility requirements include those customers up to 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, in addition to those who have a financial hardship situation as determined by an administering Winter Warmth agency.

The Gift of Warmth Fuel Fund provides eligible lowincome customers whose incomes are at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level and who have received a disconnect notice with heating bill assistance. NIPSCO matches agency contributions dollar for dollar.

Township trustees provide customers with home heating bill assistance. Customers are encouraged to contact their local Township Trustee to see what help is available.

For information or assistance call Carroll County Area IV Agency at (765) 564-6466 or NIPSCO at (800) 464-7726.