Help with Bills in Michigan

Statistics show that the cost of living is relatively lower in Michigan than the other states, but in spite of that, single moms are still battling to stay afloat when it comes to utility bills. In an effort help them find resourceful information; this article will list programs and organizations that are willing to provide assistance.

Help with Energy Bills

Whether its electricity, propane and gas, energy bills can put lots of strain on residents who already live off of a very tight budget. The Michigan Energy Assistance Program helps residents through allowances and efficiency methods. What this means is that they will partially pay the energy bills of people who are eligible for the program. But they will also help them turn their home into an energy-saving home. That way, they’re able to get all the benefits from their energy source without actually having to pay more. Visit their website at https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/0,9535,7-395-93308_93327_93336—,00.htm

Help With Water Bills

The Michigan Department of Human Services assists low income residents in paying their late water bills and ensuring that they are paid on time by establishing payment plans and grants. This should be the first stop for single moms who have fallen behind on their water bills, because the program encourages people in the same predicament to reach out to them first before contacting any other agency or organization. In addition to that, they also offer an emergency relief water allowance of up to $175 per year. To find out how you can go about applying, you may simply phone them on their toll free number, or visit their website at: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339–333061–,00.html

Help with Heating Bills

Heating is crucial especially in winter when the temperature tends to drop dangerously low. The only problem is that it also tends to put a burden on people like single moms who are really struggling to make ends meet.  The Michigan Low Income Home Energy Assistance strives to help residents pay their heating and energy bills. Since the demand for this assistance is really high, the program has strict eligibility requirements that candidates have to meet before they’re able to receive any type of assistance. If you already qualify for other government programs like the SNAP, TANF and SSI, then you automatically qualify for the LIHEAP. However, more requirements can be read directly on their website: https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/1545

Help with Phone Bills

The state government of Michigan believes that communication and the internet are basic needs and that everyone should have access to them. As a result, they run the Lifeline Program which is co-administered by the state and federal government. The state department offers telephone connection at a more affordable monthly rate. Single moms who would like to join this benefit can expect to get a discount of up to $11.25 a month on their telephone bill. If you decide to go for the federal Lifeline Program, not only will you get a discount on your communication bill, but your internet service too. Find out about other eligibility requirements by visiting their website at: https://www.michigan.gov/mpsc/0,9535,7-395-93308_93325_93425_94040_94043—,00.html

 Help with Food and Meals

The Michigan Food Assistance Program (MFAP) aims to relieve hunger in the low income population by increasing their food purchasing power. The project is run by the state and federal government and it doesn’t affect the candidate’s ability to receive other grants. For instance, if you’re receiving an energy allowance or water bill discount, you’d still be able to receive food assistance from the MFAP. It works almost like the national food STAMP. Eligible candidates simply have to find retailers that are working with the MFAP and from there, they may pick any items other than alcoholic beverages, Tobacco and ready-prepared meals. Read more at: https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/1222