Connecticut’s long winters and hot summers can lead to high utility costs , creating financial strain for many families—especially low-income households, seniors, and those facing unexpected hardships. Fortunately, Connecticut offers a robust safety net of state-run, federally funded, and nonprofit utility assistance programs .
Whether you’re behind on your heating bill, need help with water payments, or want to avoid shut-off notices, this guide covers the top utility assistance options in Connecticut , including eligibility , application instructions , and where to get help fast.
Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)
The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is the state’s flagship heating assistance program for low-income residents . Funded by the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) , CEAP offers financial help during the winter months to ensure residents can heat their homes safely.
What CEAP Covers:
CEAP provides direct payments to utility companies or fuel vendors to cover home heating needs, including:
Electric heat
Natural gas
Oil, propane, kerosene, coal, wood, or wood pellets
Emergency heating assistance if you’re out of fuel or facing a shut-off
Depending on income, household size, and energy type, you may receive up to $600 in assistance and even more in crises.
Who Qualifies for CEAP:
To qualify for CEAP, your annual household income must be at or below 60% of Connecticut’s State Median Income (SMI):
Household Size Maximum Annual Income (60% SMI)
1 person
$41,553
2 people
$54,338
3 people
$67,124
4 people
$79,910
5 people
$92,695
6 people
$105,481
Tip: You may also qualify if you receive SNAP, TANF, SSI, or Medicaid benefits.
How to Apply for CEAP:
Applying is easy—and the earlier you apply, the better :
Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
For families facing water or wastewater shut-offs, LIHWAP offers critical support by providing grants to cover overdue bills. This program ensures that no household goes without access to clean, safe water.
What LIHWAP Covers:
Up to $1,000 in grants to pay off past-due water and wastewater bills
Available for public water systems and private well users with septic systems
Who Qualifies for LIHWAP:
Must be a Connecticut resident
Must have a past-due water or wastewater bill
Household income must be at or below 60% of SMI (same guidelines as CEAP)
How to Apply for LIHWAP:
Matching Payment Program (MPP)
The Matching Payment Program (MPP) helps low-income customers of major utility companies reduce their past-due electric or gas balances through a dollar-for-dollar matching system.
What MPP Offers:
For every dollar you pay, your utility company matches a portion of your past-due balance
Monthly payments based on income
Protection from utility disconnection while you remain active in the program
Who Qualifies for MPP:
To enroll, you must:
Be a customer of Eversource , UI , Southern Connecticut Gas , or Connecticut Natural Gas
Be enrolled in CEAP , LIHEAP , SNAP , or Medicaid
Demonstrate financial hardship or a history of missed payments
How to Apply for MPP:
Contact your utility provider directly to enroll:
Eversource: (800) 286-2828
United Illuminating (UI): (800) 722-5584
Southern Connecticut Gas: (800) 659-8299
Connecticut Natural Gas: (860) 727-9488
Additional Resources: Operation Fuel
Operation Fuel is a statewide nonprofit that provides emergency energy and water assistance to households that fall through the cracks of state and federal programs.
Operation Fuel Offers:
Up to $1,000 in one-time emergency aid
Available year-round while funding lasts
Support for electricity, gas, water, oil, and deliverable fuels
Who Can Apply:
How to Apply:
FAQs: Connecticut Utility Assistance Programs
Can I apply for multiple assistance programs at once?
Yes! Most families qualify for multiple programs , including CEAP, Operation Fuel, LIHWAP, and MPP. These can often be combined—just not for the same bill or period.
What if I get a utility shut-off notice?
Call your utility provider immediately to request a payment arrangement or hardship plan
Apply for CEAP or Operation Fuel for emergency assistance
Dial 2-1-1 for help finding a local resource
Do I need to repay CEAP or Operation Fuel?
No. These are grants, not loans . They don’t require repayment, and they won’t affect your credit score.
How long does it take to get help?
CEAP and LIHWAP: Usually 2 to 4 weeks
Operation Fuel: Most grants are processed within 2 weeks , sometimes faster in emergencies
Next Steps: What To Do If You Need Help Now
If you’re facing high energy bills or a utility shut-off, don’t wait—there are multiple forms of help available today . Here’s how to take action:
Apply for CEAP via the CEAP online portal or by calling (800) 842-1132
Apply for LIHWAP at Connecticut’s LIHWAP site or call 2-1-1
Call your utility company to enroll in the Matching Payment Program (MPP)
Contact Operation Fuel at operationfuel.org or dial 2-1-1
Need more guidance? Dial 2-1-1 Connecticut for free help finding the right program
Connecticut Residents. You May Qualify for Utility Help
From grants and discounts to payment plans, Connecticut offers a range of utility assistance programs to help ease the burden. See what help you’re eligible for, don’t miss out on savings!
