How to Get Help with Utility Bills: Programs and Resources in LA and Orange Counties

Written By Tara Hack

Struggling to pay your utility bills can be overwhelming, especially when faced with other financial challenges. Fortunately, there are programs in Los Angeles and Orange Counties designed to provide relief for low-income households. These programs can help you cover electricity, water, gas, and other essential utilities.

1. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP is a federal program that helps low-income families with their energy bills, including heating and cooling costs. If you qualify, LIHEAP can provide financial assistance to reduce your monthly energy bills or offer emergency support if you’re facing a utility shutoff.

  • Contact for Los Angeles County: Call (323) 721-4162 or visit Maravilla Foundation, which administers LIHEAP in Los Angeles.

  • Contact for Orange County: Call (714) 839-6199 or visit Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAP OC).

2. California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program

The CARE program offers a discount of up to 30-35% on electricity and gas bills for low-income households. Many utility providers in both Los Angeles and Orange Counties offer this program, including Southern California Edison and SoCalGas.

  • How to Apply: Contact your utility provider directly or visit Southern California Edison’s CARE program page or SoCalGas CARE program page.

3. Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program

FERA offers discounted electric rates for households with moderate incomes that don’t qualify for CARE. The program provides a 12% discount on electricity bills for families of three or more.

  • How to Apply: Contact Southern California Edison or visit the FERA page.

4. Utility Payment Plans

If you're struggling to pay your utility bills, many utility providers in Los Angeles and Orange Counties offer payment plans to spread your bills over time. Contact your utility provider to see if you can arrange a payment plan or deferred payment option to avoid disconnection.

  • Southern California Edison: (800) 655-4555

  • SoCalGas: (877) 238-0092

5. Emergency Utility Assistance through 211

211 services in both Los Angeles and Orange County provide information and connections to utility assistance programs. If you're in an emergency situation and need help paying your utility bills, calling 211 can connect you to programs, nonprofits, and other local organizations offering aid.

6. The Gas Assistance Fund (GAF)

The Gas Assistance Fund is a program provided by SoCalGas and the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. It offers one-time grants to help low-income customers pay their gas bills.

  • Contact: Call (800) 427-2200 or visit SoCalGas GAF Program.

7. Water Bill Assistance Programs

Many cities in Los Angeles and Orange Counties offer water bill assistance programs for low-income households. Contact your local water utility company to see if they provide discounts, payment plans, or bill assistance.

  • Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP): Offers a Lifeline Program that provides discounts for low-income customers.

  • Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD): Offers a low-income ratepayer assistance program.

8. Medical Baseline Allowance

The Medical Baseline Allowance program provides additional energy at the lowest rate for households that have someone with a medical condition requiring electricity-powered equipment or extra heating and cooling.

  • How to Apply: Contact your utility provider or visit Southern California Edison Medical Baseline.

If you're struggling to keep up with utility bills in Los Angeles or Orange Counties, there are numerous programs available to provide relief. Whether through payment plans, direct financial assistance, or discounts for low-income households, help is available to ensure that you can keep your lights on and stay warm. Reach out to the programs above or contact your utility provider to explore the best options for your situation.

Tara Hack

Tara Hack is the Founder and CEO of Avorio Marketing, a digital marketing agency that specializes in helping nonprofits, service providers, and B2B businesses amplify their digital presence and drive growth. Under her leadership, Avorio Marketing has become a trusted partner for mission-driven organizations looking to build deeper connections, generate leads, and expand their impact without relying on traditional cold outreach tactics.

https://www.avoriomarketing.com
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