Arkansans can get help to pay summer cooling bills beginning July 8through September 30, or until funds are depleted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligibility is based on income for the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. To apply, visit the Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment  to find the community-based organization or CBO that administers the program in your county. 

More than 122,000 Arkansas got help from LIHEAP in 2020, with grants up to $287 for each of the heating and cooling seasons. The Arkansas effort also provides grants up to $500 for summer or winter crisis events.

Nationally, seven out of ten households helped by LIHEAP are home to a child under the age of six, an elderly resident, a veteran, or someone with a disability.

“LIHEAP is a great help to our customers,” said Brett Mattison, SWEPCO president. “We encourage those who might be eligible to learn more about this and our other programs to help manage seasonal bill spikes.”

SWEPCO recently introduced an easy-to-use tool to identify bill help based on your needs. Just answer a few questions at swepco.com/billhelp and we’ll provide every customer with options.

“Whether it’s a payment plan, a payment extension or average monthly payments, we’re here to help local families beat the heat and combat the high bills,” said Mattison.