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Ohio offers assistance to those facing utility disconnection


Posted October 9, 2024
4:28 pm


With the winter season almost upon us, consumers dealing with light or gas service disconnections or those who are trying to avoid them, can get help through the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s Special Reconnect Order (SRO).  The benefits of the order will be available through April 18, 2025.

SRO can help customers by requiring them to pay up to $175 to get their service reconnected or to keep services from being shut off. Those who owe more than $175 can contact their service provider to determine if they can get on a payment plan to pay the remainder of the balance. Customers may have to pay up to a $36 fee to get their service reconnected, but if these fees exceed this amount, the utility company may add the remainder of the fee to the outstanding balance.

Customers can also learn if they are eligible for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP Plus) and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

For more information about the Special Reconnect Order, go to www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or call 1-800-282-0880. Customers can also call the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio at 1-800-686-7826.

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