Utility Resources
July 2026 Update: LIHEAP applications are currently closed and are expected to reopen October 1, 2026. USF applications remain open through August 15, 2026.
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Need Help Paying Your Utility Bills?
Struggling with an electric, gas, heating, or water bill? Middlesex County residents may qualify for state, local, or utility-based assistance programs. Eligibility and funding availability vary by program.
Facing a shutoff? Act quickly.
Contact your utility provider first to request a payment arrangement. You can also call the NJ Home Energy Assistance Hotline at 1-800-510-3102 or dial 2-1-1 for guidance.
Main Programs
Universal Service Fund (USF)
Universal Service Fund (USF)
Provides recurring gas or electric bill credits for eligible households. Applications are currently available through August 15, 2026
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Helps with heating, cooling, and certain energy emergencies. The current application period has closed and is expected to reopen October 1, 2026.
USF Fresh Start
USF Fresh Start
Certain USF participants may qualify to have past-due balances forgiven after making required monthly payments.
NJ SHARES
NJ SHARES
Provides grants for qualifying households experiencing a temporary financial crisis. Assistance may cover energy, water, sewer, telephone, or internet bills.
Where to Apply in Middlesex County
Community Affairs and Resource Center - CARC
Community Affairs and Resource Center - CARC
421 State Street Perth Amboy, NJ 08861
Phone: 732-774-3282
Email: energyassistance@carcnj.org
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
NORWESCAP, Inc.
NORWESCAP, Inc.
197 Route 18, Suite 110, South Tower
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Phone: 908-454-4778
Email: liheap@norwescap.org
Client Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Utility Provider Contact List
PSE&G — Electric & Gas
800-436-7734 | Visit
JCP&L — Electric
800-662-3115 | Visit
Elizabethtown Gas — Natural Gas
800-242-5830 | Visit
Middlesex Water Company — Water
800-782-1116 | Visit
NJ American Water — Water
800-272-1325 | Visit
Water providers vary by municipality. Check your bill to confirm your provider.
Important Document Checklist:
Before applying, gather:
Photo ID
Utility Bill
Proof of Income
Proof of Address
Social Security Cards (if requested)
Benefit Award Letters
Not sure which program fits your situation? LCCI can help you identify available programs and understand the next steps. Assistance is not guaranteed and remains subject to each program’s eligibility requirements and available funding.
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