The short answer
Texas's main utility help program is CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program). It helps low-income households pay electric and gas bills, with extra help in a crisis. To apply, call 2-1-1 Texas (or 877-541-7905) and ask for utility assistance, or contact your local community action agency. Got a disconnection notice? Act the same day — help is fastest before the shutoff date.
Programs that can help
- CEAP — Texas's main program for electric and gas bills, run through local community action agencies
- Emergency CEAP — faster help when you have a disconnection notice or your power is already off
- Payment plans from your utility — Texas providers must offer deferred payment arrangements if you ask
- Weatherization — free home upgrades (insulation, sealing, efficient appliances) that lower future bills
- Local help — churches, nonprofits and county programs often fill the gaps; 2-1-1 knows what's near you
Who qualifies
Most programs use income limits around 150% of the federal poverty level, and give priority to households with seniors, children under 5, or people with disabilities. If your household already gets SNAP, Medicaid or SSI, you usually meet the income rule automatically.
How to apply, step by step
- Call 2-1-1 Texas (or 877-541-7905, 24 hours a day) and say you need utility assistance. They'll give you the agency that serves your county.
- Gather your documents: photo ID, proof of income for everyone in the household, your most recent electric and gas bills, and any disconnection notice.
- Apply with the local agency. Many accept applications by phone, online or in person. Ask about emergency help if your shutoff date is close.
- Call your utility too. Ask for a payment plan while your application is processed — this can pause a disconnection.
Got a disconnection notice?
Call your utility the same day and ask for a deferred payment plan. Then call 2-1-1 for emergency CEAP. If someone in your home has a serious medical condition, ask your doctor about a medical certificate — it can delay a shutoff. Texas rules also limit disconnections during extreme heat and cold.
Lower your bills for good
- Ask about free weatherization when you apply for CEAP — it can cut bills for years
- If you can choose your electric provider, compare plans at PowerToChoose.org, the state's official site
- Ask your utility about budget billing, which spreads costs evenly across the year
Utility bill help FAQs
What is CEAP in Texas?+
The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is Texas's main utility bill help program. It helps low-income households pay electric and gas bills, and can help in a crisis like a disconnection notice. Apply through your local community action agency — call 2-1-1 Texas to find yours.
Can my power be shut off in extreme heat or cold in Texas?+
Texas has rules that limit disconnections during extreme weather. Electric companies generally cannot disconnect you when temperatures are very hot or very cold, and they must offer payment plans. If you get a disconnection notice, call your provider and 2-1-1 right away — don't wait for the shutoff date.
How do I apply for utility bill assistance in Texas?+
Call 2-1-1 Texas (or 877-541-7905) and ask for utility assistance, or contact your local community action agency directly. You'll usually need a photo ID, proof of income, your recent utility bills, and any disconnection notice. Some agencies let you apply online.
Who qualifies for help paying electric bills in Texas?+
Most programs use income limits around 150% of the federal poverty level, and give priority to households with seniors, young children, or people with disabilities. If you get SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI, you often meet the income rule automatically.
Is there help for water bills in Texas?+
Yes, but it's more limited. The federal Low Income Household Water Assistance Program and some local agencies help with water and wastewater bills. Call 2-1-1 to ask what's available in your county, and ask your water provider about payment plans and hardship programs.
What if I already got a disconnection notice?+
Act the same day: (1) call your utility and ask for a payment plan or deferred payment arrangement, (2) call 2-1-1 Texas for emergency CEAP help, and (3) call Texas Health Help at 346-699-7222 if you want a navigator to help you through it. Medical emergency? Ask your doctor about a medical certificate, which can delay a shutoff.
Want help applying?
A free navigator can help you apply for utility assistance — and check whether you also qualify for SNAP, Medicaid or other programs that free up money for bills.
Related guides
Note: Texas Health Help is a community nonprofit. CEAP is funded by the federal LIHEAP program and run by local agencies, which set their own application steps. Confirm details with 2-1-1 Texas or your local community action agency.