Struggling to pay your monthly electric bill? You’re not alone. Over 1 million Florida households qualify for electric bill assistance programs for low-income families or those facing temporary hardship. This guide will walk you through the main options for getting help with electric bills across major utility providers in Florida.
Who Qualifies for Bill Pay Assistance?
Most electric bill aid programs have income requirements to qualify Common eligibility criteria include
- Household income below 150% of the federal poverty level
- Recipient of government assistance like SNAP, TANF or SSI
- Senior citizen (60+ years old) or disabled household member
- Recent job loss or income disruption due to COVID-19
Priority is given to households with children, elderly or medical conditions. Veterans and victims of domestic violence may also receive preferential treatment.
While income limits apply, anyone facing electric shut-off due to a temporary crisis should still reach out for help.
Types of Electric Bill Assistance Available
-
Bill payment assistance – One-time grants, usually $100-500, to cover a past-due electric account and avoid disconnection. Paid directly to utility company.
-
Discount rates – Ongoing monthly discounts of $10-25 for low-income customers. Reduces the base electric rate.
-
Debt forgiveness – Elimination of a portion of past-due balances for households in crisis situations
-
Energy crisis aid – Grants to restore electric service or repair broken heating/cooling equipment.
-
Weatherization – Free home improvements like insulation and caulking to reduce electric usage and bills.
Most electric providers offer a combination of short-term bill assistance and ongoing discounts for consistent relief.
Major Electric Bill Aid Programs in Florida
Florida’s major utility companies all offer programs to help customers who are struggling to pay their electric bills.
Florida Power & Light (FPL) Assistance Programs
-
FPL Care to Share – Bill payment assistance funded by FPL donations and customer contributions. Aid amounts based on need. Call FPL at 1-800-DIALFPL to apply.
-
LIHEAP – Federally-funded energy assistance distributed through community agencies. Grants average $150-$350. Apply via local LIHEAP provider.
-
ElderCare Energy Assistance – Bill payment aid for FPL customers ages 60+. Get up to $500 per year. Call 1-800-96-ELDER to apply.
Duke Energy Florida Bill Assistance
-
LIHEAP – Federally-funded bill payment aid. Apply through county social services agency.
-
Senior Citizens Discount – 10% discount on electric bills for customers 65+. Call 1-800-700-8744.
-
Energy Neighbor Fund – Duke Energy bill assistance program for seniors or disabled. Up to $300 per year.
-
Share the Light Fund – Aid for households facing electric disconnection. Up to $500 per 12 months. Call 211 to apply.
Tampa Electric (TECO) Bill Payment Assistance
-
Care Energy Assistance Program – Bill payment aid from TECO donations. Up to $500 per year. Call 211 or TECO at 1-877-842-8174.
-
Elderly/Disabled Discount – 15% discount on electric bills for low-income elderly or disabled.
-
LIHEAP – Federally-funded bill assistance. Apply through Hillsborough County.
-
Energy Assistance Program – Aid for TECO customers struggling with electric bills. Up to $350 per year.
Other Ways to Lower Electric Bills in Florida
Along with formal bill assistance programs, there are other ways Florida households can reduce their monthly electric costs:
-
Discount rates – Ask your electric provider about special rates for seniors, disabled or veterans.
-
Payment plans – Set up installment plans or deferred payments if falling behind on electric bills.
-
Budget billing – Pay a fixed averaged amount each month to avoid seasonal spikes.
-
Energy audits – Get free home energy checkups to identify savings opportunities.
-
Weatherization – Take advantage of programs that provide home upgrades to improve efficiency.
-
Reduce usage – Try simple steps like turning up the thermostat, using fans, unplugging devices when not in use.
Don’t wait until you receive a shut-off notice to seek help with electric bills in Florida. Reach out early to access bill discounts, grants and loans that can provide monthly relief and help avoid a crisis situation.
Find out if you are eligible for WAP and apply
For home improvements that save money on energy, you may qualify for help through the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
Your eligibility for weatherization assistance depends on your income. Or you may qualify if you already receive benefits through a federal assistance program such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To see if you are eligible and how to apply, contact your states WAP office.
Find out if you are eligible for LIHEAP and apply
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help you pay your heating or cooling bills or get emergency services during an energy crisis.
You may be eligible for help with your energy bills based on your income. See if you qualify, how to apply, and where to get more information.
Help with electric bills can be tricky to get
FAQ
How can I get help paying my electric bill in Florida?
What if I can’t pay my FPL bill?
What is the Florida financial hardship program?
What is the Leap Program in Florida?
Are there other utility bill assistance programs in Florida?
There are a number of other utility bill assistance programs in Florida as well. In a weather-related crisis, families or individuals that have a home emergency that was caused by a specific weather disaster, such as a windstorm, hurricane, flooding, etc., can work with LIHEAP and the Mid-Florida Community Services to obtain assistance.
How can I get help with energy bills in Florida?
For help with energy bills in Florida, click here for LIHEAP and weatherization. Florida community action agencies can also help with energy bills. They are often a source for government grants, information on free energy conservation measures, disabled or elderly assistance (from the government and non-profits) and more.
Does Florida Power & Light pay energy bills?
Federal government funds and grants can be used to pay energy bills for Florida Power and Light customers. Currently the program can pay for up to one month’s worth of utility bills, reconnection fees, and other financial assistance. There is a toll free number for people to call to get customer service.
How do I get help paying my FPL electric bill?
There are a number of assistance programs offered, only some of which are listed above. Call Florida Power and Light at 1 (888) 988-8249 or 1-800-226-3545 for information. Find help paying FPL electric bills.
How do I get help with my electric bill in Clay County?
For assistance with your electric bill in Clay County, you can call 850-222-2043 or 850-891-4968. Clay County Utility offers help to the disabled and seniors through programs like Golden Opportunities. Another option is Lend a Hand, which is available for low income customers facing a crisis. Those who qualify may be provided a grant for their electric bills.
How can low income customers get financial assistance in Florida?
Low income customers in Florida may be able to receive financial assistance from local electric, gas, and utility companies. Find how to get help, including grants or other financial aid, to pay utility bills or a deposit. There are also discounts for seniors, payment plans, deferral programs, and other resources.