Will delay termination of service for up to 30 days when customers have a licensed physician complete a medical certification form stating that termination would be hazardous to the health or safety of a permanent resident of the home.

Process applications for utility grants for the Dollar Energy Fund Hardship Program on a first come, first serve basis.

Provides the follow protections for consumer. Details of each of these items may be found by clicking here. OR cut and paste web site in your browser: https://www.puc.pa.gov/press-release/2020/puc-enhances-utility-protections-for-families-businesses-struggling-with-financial-impact-of-covid-19.

No Terminations for “Protected Customers” – Utilities shall not terminate service for residential customers with incomes within 300% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIG). (see income chart in "Eligibility" section of this listing)

• Special Outreach to Customers At-Risk of Termination – Utilities must reach out to individual residential and commercial customers whose unpaid balances put them at-risk of termination after the PUC moratorium is lifted on November 9th, 2020.
  
• Payment Arrangements for Small Businesses – Utilities shall offer a payment arrangement for a period of no less than 18 months to small business customers, as defined by a utility’s tariff.
  
• Waiver of Connection/Reconnection Fees – Utilities shall waive all connection, reconnection and deposit fees for protected customers.
  
• No Late Payment Charges – Late payment charges are waived for protected customers.
  
• Additional Medical Certificates – Two additional medical certificates shall be accepted by utilities for eligible customers.
  
• Flexible Income Verification – Utilities and the PUC’s Bureau of Consumer Services can utilize flexible methods to verify customer income for assistance programs, payment plans and qualification as a protected customer
  
  NOTE for utility concerns regarding PAYMENT PLANS, BILLING ISSUES and/or SERVICE:
  1. Consumers should always call their utility provider first to make payment arrangements or share concern.
  2. IF that effort is unsuccessful, consumers may call 1-800-692-7380
  3. Based on the intake process this office may or may not be able to help resolve the issue.
  
  CONSUMER COMPLAINTS: This office investigates and attempts to resolve consumer complaints against regulated companies; monitors companies for compliance with regulations; educates public on consumer rights and responsibilities; and provides background information on the rate-making process.
  
  

One-time help with rent, utilities, prescription medicine, clothing required for work, some auto repairs and state inspections, services that provide a helping hand to allow people to get on firmer footing.