How to Get Utility Bill Assistance in Florida Before a Shutoff
A triage path for a shutoff notice: utility protections and payment arrangements first, then the right local aid program.
Start here
Call the utility before the shutoff date, request a hardship arrangement, and ask what documentation can pause disconnection. At the same time, contact 211 for the county LIHEAP provider; households with someone age 60 or older should also ask about EHEAP.
What to have in front of you
- Shutoff notice and deadline
- Utility account number and service address
- Past-due amount and recent payment history
- Household income proof
- Medical-need documentation if equipment or temperature creates a health risk
What to say when someone answers
“My utility is scheduled for shutoff on [date]. I need the fastest available payment arrangement and the current LIHEAP, EHEAP, or local emergency-assistance provider for my county.”
Small but useful: Write down the person’s name, the date, the exact next step, and when you should call again.
Do this in order
- 1
Call the utility and record the minimum needed to delay shutoff.
- 2
Call 211 and the county LIHEAP provider the same day.
- 3
If someone is 60 or older, ask the ADRC or Elder Helpline about EHEAP.
- 4
Submit documents and give the provider the exact shutoff date.
What happens next
The utility decides payment-arrangement options; local agencies separately decide aid based on funding and eligibility. An application does not automatically stop shutoff.
If they say “we’ll put you on the list”
Ask the utility what partial payment or written agency pledge will hold service. Call 211 again for charities, county emergency aid, and cooling or medical-equipment resources.
Official sources
- Florida Department of Elder Affairs — housing and utility assistance
- Florida Department of Commerce — LIHEAP
- Florida Department of Elder Affairs — EHEAP
Checked August 23, 2026. Programs, hours, funding, and enrollment lists can change. Confirm details directly before relying on them.