With severe winter weather bringing Arctic air across the state, SWEPCO is reminding customers of the help available from the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to pay winter heating bills.
The federal assistance is available to SWEPCO customers in Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas.
Arkansans can get help to pay winter heating bills through LIHEAP. The application window for Arkansas LIHEAP grants opened Jan. 6 and continues through April 30, or until funds are depleted. Help is available for income qualified residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligibility is based on income for the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
- Arkansas customers can apply now through April 30 for winter heating help.
- Texas customers can apply year-round until funds are depleted.
- Louisiana customers began applying for winter heating assistance in mid-November 2024 and can continue to apply through March 15.
“If someone in Arkansas is need of winter heating assistance, we encourage them to start applying,” said Tiffany Smith, planning and development program manager at Central Arkansas Development Council, a community action agency. Arkansas residents can find more information about where to apply by visiting the Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment to find the community-based organization or CBO that administers the program in each Arkansas county.
“LIHEAP provides essential support for our customers,” said Brett Mattison, SWEPCO president COO. “We urge those who may qualify to explore this program, and our other resources designed to assist with seasonal bill increases.”
SWEPCO offers customers a user-friendly tool to help customers find tailored bill assistance. By logging into their account, customers are answering a few simple questions at SWEPCO.com/billhelp, we can connect every customer with suitable options.
“From flexible payment plans to extensions and average monthly payments, we are committed to helping local families manage their energy costs during challenging times,” added Mattison.
Prepare now for severe winter weather. Ready to make a winter safety kit? Get started at SWEPCO.com/stormprep
Stay Informed with SWEPCO Alerts:
- Use the SWEPCO app, available for download at SWEPCO.com/APP, via the App Store, or Google Play.
- Sign up for text and email updates, including estimated time of restoration, at SWEPCO.com/Alerts.
- Visit SWEPCO.com/OutageMap to find detailed outage information without logging into your account.
- Call 1-888-218-3919 to report your outage or hazard.