Millions can get an energy credit for their cooling bills from July 1 – Here’s how

MILLIONS of homes trying to beat the Ohio heat this summer may be eligible for help with their energy bills.

According to EnergySage, the average Ohioan spends more than $1,800 annually on energy.

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But depending on your income level and energy bills, Ohio offers energy assistance programs that can help you meet your energy bills.

The Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program helps Ohio residents pay their electric bills or cover the cost of central air conditioning repairs.

The program supports households when one or more of the following conditions apply:

• The household has received a disconnection notice or the power has been turned off
• Someone in the household is 60 or older
• A doctor has provided documentation showing that a household member’s health requires cooling support
• Someone has been diagnosed with COVID-19
• The household is try to establish a new service on their electricity bill

Households must also have an income below 175% of federal poverty guidelines.

The income limits are as follows:

• Households of one, up to $22,540
• Households of two, up to $30,485
• Households of three, up to $38,430
• Households of four up to $46,375
• Household of five, up to $54,320
• Households of six, up to $62,265
• Household of seven, up to $70,210
• Household of eight, up to $78,155

Eligible Ohioans must make an appointment with a representative from their local utility.

You should have these documents with you when you apply:

• A list of everyone in your household, including proof of US citizenship and income
• Copies of your most recent utility bills
• Severely handicapped pass (if applicable)
• Advice from a doctor stating that one person in the household needs cooling support when no one is over 60 years old

You can also contact a local energy service provider online or by calling (800) 282-0880.

The program begins July 1st and runs through September 30th.

Other energy aid for Ohioans

The Ohio Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) also offers assistance with winter heating bills.

To be eligible, you must be a full-time resident of Ohio and require financial assistance with energy costs.

Anyone who is already receiving benefits from programs such as SNAP, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) is also eligible for HEAP by extension.

The Sun shares the best energy-saving smart home devices to keep your utility bills down.

Also, we have explained the devices that can cost you even when they are turned off.