Although utilities cannot disconnect your service for non-payment during the public health emergency, you’ll still be billed as usual for what you’ve used. If you’re able to pay your bill, we recommend you do so to avoid a potentially large future bill.
For consumers having trouble paying their utility bills, it’s important to contact your utilities as soon as possible (see contact information at the bottom of this page). The utility companies will help you weather this crisis by providing payment arrangements and other assistance. For help figuring out what assistance may be available to you, call our Office of Consumer Services at (202) 626-5120.
Assistance programs
Verizon, Pepco and Washington Gas also offer discount programs for low-income residential customers, as well as seniors and persons with disabilities.
If you’ve received a disconnection notice or are currently disconnected, you may be eligible for an annual grant of up to $1,000 through the Washington Area Fuel Fund. Customers in wards 1-6 can call (202) 332-5000 and those in wards 7-8 can call (202) 678-9771 to learn more.
The Greater Washington Urban League also provides up to $500 in assistance to eligible customers facing disconnection. Call (202) 265-8200 to lean more.
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided an additional $2.78 million to the District’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) year-round program that assists income-eligible District households with heating and cooling energy costs through one-time assistance payments of $250-$1,800. Consumers having trouble paying their Pepco or Washington Gas bills are encouraged to apply for the program online through the Department of Energy & Environment.
Qualified District residents may also apply for the Utility Discount Programs to secure a reduced rate on their electric and natural gas bills.