SecondChanceInfosecondchanceinfo.com

Utility Assistance in Puerto Rico (2026)

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

Last updated:

Quick Answer

Yes, Puerto Rico residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Family (Departamento de la Familia). The average electric bill in Puerto Rico is $155/month. Cooling and general electric assistance is available. No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-787-294-4900 or dial 211 to apply.

Puerto Rico Utility Assistance at a Glance

$155

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

No

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

LIHEAP in Puerto Rico

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Puerto Rico is administered by the Puerto Rico Department of Family (Departamento de la Familia). 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 AgencyPuerto Rico Department of Family (Departamento de la Familia)
Phone1-787-294-4900
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Heating AssistanceNot applicable (tropical climate)
Cooling AssistanceUp to $600 for electric bills (cooling/general use)
Crisis AssistanceEmergency assistance for electric bill crises and post-disaster relief
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico does not have a winter moratorium (tropical climate). LUMA Energy (the electric utility) must provide notice before disconnection. Post-hurricane protections have been in place frequently. Many households use generators and solar due to grid reliability issues.

Winter Moratorium

No

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in Puerto Rico

LUMA Energy offers payment plans for new customers. Deposits may be waived with a letter of good payment history. Solar installations are increasingly common and reduce reliance on the grid. No-deposit prepaid options are not widely available.

Puerto Rico Utility Assistance Programs

  • Puerto Rico LIHEAP
  • LUMA Energy low-income assistance
  • FEMA Disaster Assistance (ongoing post-hurricane recovery)
  • Salvation Army Puerto Rico utility help
  • Community Action Agencies

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in Puerto Rico

  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 Puerto Rico Department of Family (Departamento de la Familia) by calling 1-787-294-4900, 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 Puerto Rico). 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.

Puerto Rico Utility Commission

The Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (NEPR/PREB) regulates utilities in Puerto Rico. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (NEPR/PREB)

Complaint phone: 1-787-523-6262

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in Puerto Rico?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in Puerto Rico. 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 Puerto Rico if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in Puerto Rico 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 Puerto Rico?
The average residential electric bill in Puerto Rico is approximately $155 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 Puerto Rico during winter?
Puerto Rico does not have a blanket winter shutoff moratorium, but protections may exist for elderly, disabled, or medically vulnerable households. If you receive a shutoff notice, contact your utility company immediately to discuss payment plans, or call 211 for emergency assistance. LIHEAP crisis assistance can help prevent disconnection.

Related Resources

Related Resources on This Site

Helpful guides

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.

Sources