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Utility Assistance in New Mexico (2026)

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

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Quick Answer

Yes, New Mexico residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the New Mexico Human Services Department, Income Support Division. The average electric bill in New Mexico is $100/month. Heating assistance averages Average $300-$500 per household per year. No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-800-283-4465 or dial 211 to apply.

New Mexico Utility Assistance at a Glance

$100

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

Yes

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

LIHEAP in New Mexico

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in New Mexico is administered by the New Mexico Human Services Department, Income Support Division. 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 Mexico Human Services Department, Income Support Division
Phone1-800-283-4465
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Heating AssistanceAverage $300-$500 per household per year
Cooling AssistanceCooling assistance available
Crisis AssistanceEmergency assistance for energy crisis
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in New Mexico

New Mexico prohibits gas utility disconnections from November 15 through March 15 for hardship customers. Electric protections also exist. Customers must demonstrate inability to pay and enter a payment plan.

Winter Moratorium

Yes

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in New Mexico

PNM (Public Service Company of New Mexico) offers budget billing and deposit alternatives. Deposit waivers available for customers with satisfactory credit. Tribal utility programs serve some reservations.

New Mexico Utility Assistance Programs

  • New Mexico LIHEAP
  • New Mexico Weatherization Program
  • PNM Good Neighbor Fund
  • Roadrunner Food Bank energy assistance
  • Tribal utility assistance programs

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in New Mexico

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 150% 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 Mexico Human Services Department, Income Support Division by calling 1-800-283-4465, 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 Mexico). 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 Mexico Utility Commission

The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC) regulates utilities in New Mexico. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (NMPRC)

Complaint phone: 1-888-427-5772

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in New Mexico?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in New Mexico. 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 Mexico if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in New Mexico 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 Mexico?
The average residential electric bill in New Mexico is approximately $100 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 Mexico during winter?
New Mexico 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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