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Utility Assistance in New Jersey (2026)

LIHEAP, shutoff protection, no-deposit electricity, and assistance programs for New Jersey residents

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Quick Answer

Yes, New Jersey residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA). The average electric bill in New Jersey is $120/month. Heating assistance averages Average $500-$700 per household per year. No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-800-510-3102 or dial 211 to apply.

New Jersey Utility Assistance at a Glance

$120

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

Yes

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

LIHEAP in New Jersey

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in New Jersey is administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA). LIHEAP helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. There are no criminal background checks -- people with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify based on income alone.

Administering AgencyNew Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA)
Phone1-800-510-3102
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Heating AssistanceAverage $500-$700 per household per year
Cooling AssistanceCooling assistance through LIHEAP cooling component
Crisis AssistanceEmergency assistance to prevent shutoff or restore service
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in New Jersey

New Jersey prohibits gas and electric shutoffs from November 15 through March 15 for residential customers who demonstrate inability to pay and receive or have applied for LIHEAP. Customers must enter into a deferred payment agreement.

Winter Moratorium

Yes

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in New Jersey

PSE&G, JCP&L, and Atlantic City Electric offer deposit alternatives with satisfactory credit. New Jersey's USF (Universal Service Fund) program provides bill credits to low-income customers. Budget billing widely available.

New Jersey Utility Assistance Programs

  • New Jersey LIHEAP / Home Energy Assistance
  • NJ Universal Service Fund (USF) -- bill credits up to $1,800/year
  • NJ Weatherization Assistance
  • PSE&G True-Up payment assistance
  • NJ SHARES (Statewide Heating and Refrigerant Energy Services)

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in New Jersey

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. You also qualify automatically if you receive SNAP (food stamps), SSI, TANF, or certain other benefits. There is no criminal background check. Call 211 to check eligibility.

  2. 2

    Gather Your Documents

    You will need proof of identity (state ID, driver's license), proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit award letters), a recent utility bill, and proof of address. Social Security numbers for all household members are typically required.

  3. 3

    Contact Your Local Agency

    Apply through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) by calling 1-800-510-3102, visiting their website, or contacting your local Community Action Agency. You can also call 211 to find the nearest office.

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    Apply in person, by mail, or online (if available in New Jersey). Most states process applications during the heating season (October through May). Funds are limited, so apply as early as possible. Crisis assistance may be available year-round.

  5. 5

    Receive Your Benefit

    LIHEAP payments are sent directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. If you have a shutoff notice, mention it -- crisis assistance can be expedited within 48 hours. Also ask about weatherization services to permanently lower your energy costs.

New Jersey Utility Commission

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) regulates utilities in New Jersey. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU)

Complaint phone: 1-800-624-0241

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in New Jersey?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in New Jersey. Most states accept applications during the heating season (October through May), and some operate year-round. You can also apply through your state's LIHEAP administering agency. Bring proof of income, a recent utility bill, and ID. There is no criminal background check.
Can I get help with my electric bill in New Jersey if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in New Jersey do not run criminal background checks. Eligibility is based on your household income (generally 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in programs like SNAP, SSI, or TANF. People with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify.
What is the average electric bill in New Jersey?
The average residential electric bill in New Jersey is approximately $120 per month. Your actual bill depends on usage, the size of your home, heating/cooling needs, and your utility provider. If your bill is more than 6% of your household income, you have a high energy burden and likely qualify for assistance.
Can my utilities be shut off in New Jersey during winter?
New Jersey has winter shutoff protections that restrict or prohibit utility disconnections during cold weather months. Additional protections may apply to elderly, disabled, and medically vulnerable households. Contact your utility company or the state utility commission if you receive a shutoff notice during the protected period.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal or financial advice. Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts may vary and are subject to change. LIHEAP funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. Always confirm current information directly with your state agency, utility company, or local Community Action Agency. If you need immediate help, call 211 for local assistance or contact your utility company about hardship programs before your service is disconnected.

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