Comprehensive Guide to Utility Assistance Programs in New Jersey
New Jersey offers a robust network of utility assistance programs to help residents manage the cost of home energy, water, and essential utilities. These include federally funded initiatives like LIHEAP and LIHWAP, state-run efficiency and weatherization programs, utility-specific payment assistance plans, and nonprofit aid. This guide outlines all major utility assistance programs available to New Jersey residents, including eligibility requirements, benefits, how to apply, and additional resources for seniors, people with disabilities, and those experiencing emergency situations.
1. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP provides financial assistance to low-income households in New Jersey to help pay heating costs during the winter and cooling expenses in the summer. The program operates annually from October through June and offers both Regular and Emergency assistance. The Regular LIHEAP benefit is a one-time payment that helps cover winter heating bills, while the Emergency component assists households in danger of having their utilities shut off or those who have already run out of fuel. Eligible households include renters and homeowners who meet income guidelines and are responsible for paying heating or cooling costs. The benefit amount varies depending on income, household size, fuel type, and heating region. In most cases, payments are made directly to the energy provider. Households receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are categorically eligible.
2. Universal Service Fund (USF) & Lifeline Program
The USF helps make energy bills more affordable for New Jersey’s low-income households by providing monthly credits on gas and electric bills. Households that spend more than 2% (gas and electric) or 3% (electric-only or gas-only) of their income on energy may qualify. The program now includes an arrears forgiveness component for customers with past-due balances. Customers must apply annually and can reapply through the DCAid portal.
Lifeline offers a $225 annual benefit to eligible seniors aged 65+ and individuals with disabilities receiving SSDI or certain state benefits. The credit is applied directly to utility bills or provided via check if no utility account is available. Lifeline recipients are often automatically eligible for other programs like PAAD (Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled). Applications for Lifeline can be submitted through the NJSave online system or by paper application.
3. Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
LIHWAP assists households with overdue water and wastewater bills. It is especially useful for preventing service disconnection or restoring service after a shutoff. Priority is given to households with imminent disconnection notices or those already experiencing termination. Eligible households may receive grants to cover outstanding balances and maintain continued service. The program also supports reconnection fees and penalties. The benefit amount varies by the size of the overdue balance and other risk factors. Applicants can apply through the online DCAid portal. Funds are paid directly to the participating water service provider. The program supports both public and private water systems, including municipalities and regional authorities.
4. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
WAP helps reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills by making the home more energy efficient. It is a free program for qualifying low-income households and may include services such as attic and wall insulation, air sealing, heating system tune-ups or replacements, water heater upgrades, and window or door repair. The program begins with a home energy audit to assess energy usage and identify efficiency opportunities. Contractors approved by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities carry out the upgrades. Households with children, elderly, or disabled members are given priority. The improvements not only help reduce utility expenses but also improve overall home comfort and safety. Households may reapply for WAP benefits every 15 years or as needed for major equipment replacement.
5. Comfort Partners Program
The Comfort Partners Program is a collaboration between New Jersey utilities and the NJ Board of Public Utilities. It offers energy-saving improvements at no cost to eligible households. The process begins with an energy education visit and comprehensive energy audit. Based on findings, upgrades may include installation of ENERGY STAR appliances, high-efficiency lighting, programmable thermostats, insulation, duct sealing, and HVAC system replacements. Comfort Partners focuses on reducing household energy usage and improving safety. Eligibility is based on household income and energy usage history. Residents enrolled in LIHEAP or USF are typically prequalified. Program staff also help residents understand energy bills, recommend behavioral changes, and ensure follow-up support after installation. It is available in all NJ counties and administered by participating utilities such as PSE&G, JCP&L, Atlantic City Electric, and others.
6. Utility-Specific Assistance Programs
Most New Jersey utility companies offer targeted assistance and arrears forgiveness programs tailored to their customer base. These programs supplement state and federal programs and provide a safety net for households facing shutoffs or high energy burdens. They are especially helpful for households that do not qualify for federal assistance or need extra support during economic hardship.
- PSE&G Fresh Start: Offers full or partial forgiveness of past-due balances for customers actively enrolled in USF. As long as the customer pays current charges on time, the arrears are forgiven monthly over a 12-month period. PSE&G also provides budget billing, automatic enrollment for eligible customers, and access to Comfort Partners.
- JCP&L (Jersey Central Power & Light): Provides payment arrangement plans and access to Comfort Partners for energy efficiency upgrades. Also refers customers to third-party programs like NJ SHARES and Catholic Charities. JCP&L offers its own arrears forgiveness program called the Special Assistance Program (SAP) for long-term customers who maintain consistent payments.
- South Jersey Gas: Offers extended payment agreements, Fresh Start, and discounts for qualifying customers. Partnered with local nonprofits for weatherization services. SJG also has a customer service line dedicated to connecting residents with available aid and encourages online account enrollment to track credits and assistance activity.
Contact your utility’s customer service office, visit their website, or check the NJ Board of Public Utilities site for more information on eligibility and how to enroll.
7. Arrears Forgiveness and Deferred Payment Plans
Many New Jersey residents accumulate past-due balances on their utility bills due to unexpected job loss, illness, or rising energy costs. To help customers recover, utility companies are required to offer Deferred Payment Agreements (DPAs) that allow them to spread out their arrears over time. These plans are typically interest-free and may be tailored to the household's ability to pay.
In addition, customers enrolled in USF or LIHEAP may qualify for arrears forgiveness programs such as PSE&G’s Fresh Start or JCP&L’s Special Assistance Program. These programs typically erase past-due amounts over a 12-month period, as long as the customer remains in good standing and pays current charges each month. Arrears forgiveness helps prevent disconnection and gives families a path back to financial stability without the burden of excessive debt.
8. Shutoff Protections and Medical Certifications
New Jersey has several protections in place to prevent utility disconnections for vulnerable households. The Winter Termination Program (WTP) protects eligible customers from having their gas or electric service shut off between November 15 and March 15. Customers must be enrolled in programs like LIHEAP, USF, Lifeline, or meet income guidelines.
Additionally, customers with medical conditions that require uninterrupted utility service can file a Medical Certification form, signed by a licensed physician. This form temporarily halts shutoffs for up to 30 days and can be renewed. Medical certifications are vital for individuals who rely on powered medical equipment or require stable indoor temperatures to manage chronic conditions.
Utilities must also offer a minimum of 10 days' notice before disconnection and provide the opportunity to negotiate a payment agreement. Tenants whose utilities are included in their rent also have rights if the landlord fails to pay the utility provider.
9. Community Solar Programs in New Jersey
New Jersey's Community Solar Energy Pilot Program allows residents, including renters and those unable to install rooftop panels, to subscribe to a portion of a shared solar project. In return, subscribers receive credits on their electricity bills, lowering overall monthly costs. These credits typically offer guaranteed savings between 10% and 20% off the supply portion of the utility bill.
The program prioritizes Low- and Moderate-Income (LMI) households. Many community solar developers work directly with housing organizations to offer streamlined enrollment with no credit check, no cancellation fee, and fixed monthly discounts. Residents can browse active community solar projects via platforms like the NJ Clean Energy Program or through third-party sites like EnergySage and Solar Landscape. Community solar provides an accessible path to clean energy for all residents, regardless of income or housing status.
10. Support for Seniors and People with Disabilities
New Jersey provides tailored support to older adults and individuals with disabilities who often live on fixed incomes and face higher health-related energy needs. Programs like Lifeline and PAAD offer annual financial assistance, while LIHEAP and USF ensure ongoing affordability for heating and electric bills. Seniors may apply through the NJSave system, which serves as a unified portal for aging and disability-related benefits.
County Offices on Aging and Disability Services offer case management, application assistance, and outreach to ensure vulnerable residents receive all benefits for which they qualify. Utility providers also maintain dedicated customer support lines for elderly and disabled customers, offering help with billing, service modifications, and shutoff protection. Those using medical devices that require electricity can request priority service or extra protections from disconnection with proper documentation.
11. Caseworker and Nonprofit Utility Assistance
Nonprofit and community-based organizations play a critical role in supporting families in crisis. Organizations like NJ SHARES, United Way, Catholic Charities, and local Community Action Agencies offer direct assistance, application help, and access to emergency utility grants.
These agencies often have flexible funding sources that can fill gaps when state or federal assistance is delayed or exhausted. They also help clients resolve disputes with utility companies, advocate for better service, and coordinate wraparound services such as food access, housing support, or employment assistance. In many counties, these nonprofits also administer programs like Comfort Partners or serve as intake sites for LIHEAP and LIHWAP applications. You can contact NJ 211 to get connected to local resources, or check with your county’s Department of Community Affairs for referrals.
12. How to Apply
Applications for most programs—including LIHEAP, USF, LIHWAP, Lifeline, and Comfort Partners—can be submitted online through the DCAid portal. Seniors and individuals with disabilities can also use NJSave to apply for multiple benefits in one place. Required documents usually include proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, SSI statements), a current utility bill, photo ID, and proof of residency.
Residents are encouraged to apply early in the season, especially for LIHEAP and WAP, which are funded on a first-come, first-served basis. Application assistance is available through county social service offices and nonprofit organizations. Bilingual support is offered in many areas to serve New Jersey’s diverse population. For those without internet access, paper applications can be mailed or submitted at designated walk-in centers.
With strong coordination between state agencies, local utilities, and community-based organizations, New Jersey provides a comprehensive safety net for residents struggling with energy and utility costs. Whether you need emergency relief, long-term affordability, or help navigating the system, there are programs in place to support you year-round.