Cancer treatment is expensive, and it can put a strain on your finances, especially on utility bills. It can be overwhelming to deal with these growing stacks of bills. But did you know you may qualify for financial help with your utility bills? This blog post describes ways to get financial help with utility bills.

Remember to keep an open mind when thinking about financial assistance. Getting financial help in one aspect of your life frees up funds to use elsewhere. For example, if you have money for your gas bill, but not your internet, you may be able to get utility assistance and shift those funds to help you pay your internet bill.

Here are some tips for finding help with utility bills:

Check with your utility provider

Your utility providers may have programs that provide monthly discounts or one-time bill credits based on your income level and eligibility for government programs. Some utility providers offer payment plans that may make it easier for you to manage your bills.

Apply for government programs

Several government programs are designed to help ensure that all households have access to essential utility services, regardless of their income level. If you're struggling to pay for these services, it's worth looking into these programs to see if you qualify for help. Each program is run by a different government agency, so be sure to check the specific rules and application process for each one:

  • Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): provides financial help to pay for energy bills, including heating, cooling, and electricity. To be eligible, you must meet certain income levels. The program is administered at the state and local level, so the application process may vary depending on where you live. Learn more about the program in your area on the LIHEAP website.
  • Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP): helps with drinking water and wastewater utility bills. You must meet certain income levels, and specific application requirements may vary depending on where you live. Check the LIHWAP website to learn more about the program in your area.
  • Lifeline Program: offers discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. If your income is at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines or you participate in certain federal assistance programs like Medicaid or SNAP, you may qualify for a monthly discount of up to $9.25 for phone or internet services, or a combination of both. Refer to the Lifeline Program website to learn more.
  • Affordable Connectivity Program: assists low-income households with accessing affordable internet services. Research shows that internet access is associated with better health outcomes. It also makes it easier for you to find critical information related to your health and treatment. If your income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level or you participate in certain programs like Medicaid or SNAP, you may qualify for up to $30 per month for broadband services and up to a $100 one-time discount to buy a laptop, computer, or tablet. Learn more on the Affordable Connectivity Program website.

Connect with nonprofit organizations

Nonprofit organizations may also provide financial help cover the cost of utility bills. For example:

  • The American Cancer Society offers many resources to support cancer patients, including limited financial assistance for a variety of expenses, including rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and transportation to and from treatment. To be eligible for assistance, patients must meet certain income guidelines and be actively undergoing cancer treatment.
  • CancerCare provides limited financial assistance for cancer patients and their families for a variety of expenses, including utilities. To be eligible, patients must meet certain income guidelines and be actively undergoing cancer treatment.
  • Local organizations and charities in your area may provide utility assistance. Search for resources in your community or contact your local cancer center or hospital to find information.

Visit CancerFinances.org for more financial assistance resources.

Ask for help

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your health care team to find resources and support available to you. Some cancer centers may have staff who can help connect you with financial assistance programs.

There are many resources available to help cancer patients and their caregivers with utility bills. By taking advantage of these programs, you can reduce the financial burden associated with cancer treatment and focus on what really matters – your health and well-being.

For more information on managing bills, getting financial assistance, and other cancer-related legal issues, visit TriageCancer.org/Financial and check out our free Checklist to Finding Financial Help.

About Triage Cancer

Triage Cancer is a national, nonprofit providing free education to people diagnosed with cancer, caregivers, and health care professionals on cancer-related legal and practical issues. Through events, materials, and resources, Triage Cancer is dedicated to helping people move beyond diagnosis.

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