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Utility Assistance in Oregon (2026)

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

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Quick Answer

Yes, Oregon residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). The average electric bill in Oregon is $130/month. Heating assistance averages Up to $750 per household (FY 2026 heating benefit range $250-$750). No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-503-986-2000 or dial 211 to apply.

Oregon Utility Assistance at a Glance

$130

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

Yes

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

Average electric bill is the EIA 2024 residential average monthly bill for this state (Electric Sales, Revenue, and Average Price, released Oct 2025).

LIHEAP in Oregon

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Oregon is administered by the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS). 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 AgencyOregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
Phone1-503-986-2000
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit60% of State Median Income
Heating AssistanceUp to $750 per household (FY 2026 heating benefit range $250-$750)
Cooling AssistanceUp to $750 per household (FY 2026 cooling benefit range $250-$750; expanded after the 2021 heat dome)
Crisis AssistanceUp to $1,000 maximum (year-round crisis, FY 2026)
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in Oregon

Oregon prohibits utility shutoffs from November 1 through April 30 for customers who are unable to pay and have applied for energy assistance. Additional protections during extreme heat events (over 100°F) added after the 2021 heat dome.

Winter Moratorium

Yes

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in Oregon

Portland General Electric and Pacific Power offer budget billing and deposit waivers. Oregon law limits deposits to 1/6 of estimated annual charges. Low-income customers enrolled in assistance programs are often exempt from deposits.

Oregon Utility Assistance Programs

  • Oregon LIHEAP / Energy Assistance
  • Oregon Energy Conservation Helping Oregonians (ECHO)
  • PGE Income-Qualified Bill Discount Program
  • Pacific Power Low-Income Weatherization
  • Community Action Agencies (statewide)

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in Oregon

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 60% of State Median Income. 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 Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) by calling 1-503-986-2000, 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 Oregon). 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.

Oregon Utility Commission

The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) regulates utilities in Oregon. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC)

Complaint phone: 1-503-378-6600

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in Oregon?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in Oregon. Application windows vary by state - some accept applications only during the heating season, others year-round (check your state's LIHEAP agency page above). 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 Oregon if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in Oregon do not run criminal background checks. Eligibility is based on your household income (many states use 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or 60% of State Median Income - see your state's limit above) 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 Oregon?
The average residential electric bill in Oregon is approximately $130 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 Oregon during winter?
Oregon 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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