If you are a resident of Vermont and need financial assistance, you will be glad to know some organizations can help you pay to rent and utilities. Thankfully, there are government and private organizations that provide help to low-income families and adults. The following are some government and non-profit programs in Vermont that can help with utility bills.
1. Rapid Energy Assistance Program
Emergency Rental Assistance Initiative provides financing by locating cost-effective heating fuel suppliers in Vermont. In addition to providing financial assistance for past due bills, they can also use the money to pay for the delivery of eligible rentals in the future.
REAP aid is available to renters below 80% of the area’s median income. Those who qualify for REAP can have fuel delivered by participating fuel dealers; the program will reimburse them. They might use the benefit for up to 18 months per utility. Phone them at 1-800-775-0516.
2. Household Water Assistance Program
The Vermont Department of Children and Families Economic Services Division manages a federally-funded financial assistance program. The Household Water Utility Assistance Program assists low-income households in paying their water and sewerage bills and any late or missed payment fees. You can contact them through the number 1-800-339-6433
3. Vermont’s Universal Service Fund
Suppose your home qualifies for the federal government’s Lifeline program. In that case, you might save up to $9.25 per month on internet service or $5.25 per month on voice service, whichever is lower.
Telephone service is the only service for which Vermont’s Universal Service Fund offers a discount, and the amount of this discount varies based on the provider as well as the cost of service. Still, it never exceeds $4.25 monthly or even the VUSF credit users receive.
4. Vermont Weatherization Program
Vermont’s Weatherization Program aims to help low-income households, especially those with older adults, people with disabilities, or young members, save money on their monthly energy bills.
Also, the weatherization program helps by increasing their home’s energy efficiency and comfort levels without compromising their safety and health. The Department of Commerce’s Office of Economic Opportunity coordinates this initiative. You can contact them through the number 1-800-489-7273.
5. Vermont Homeowner Assistance Program
Homeowners in Vermont who’ve already fallen behind with their mortgage payments will now be eligible for aid through the state’s new Homeowner Assistance Program, which began in January 2022. Grants of up to $30,000 per household are available under this program. Funds help homeowners catch up on past-due mortgages, utility bills, real estate taxes, and association dues.
Applications will be accepted until VHFA determines that all of Vermont’s federal funds have been spent. National award number HAFP-0040 from the US Department of the Treasury partly funds the State of Vermont’s VT Homeowner Assistance Program. You can contact them through the number 833-221-4208.
6. Affordable Connectivity Program
Qualified households in Vermont can save up to $30 per month on internet access through the Federal Affordable Connectivity Program. Those living on eligible Tribal territory can save up to $75 monthly. A customer pays over $10 but far less than $50 more to purchase a computer or tablet.
The government Emergency Broadband Payment Program will extend the current monthly financial assistance for households enrolled from December 31, 2021, until March 1, 2022. After March 1, 2022, most Emergency Broadband households would automatically begin receiving the increased $30 monthly benefit. You can contact them through the number (877) 384-2575
7. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
After January 21, 2020, the Vermont Housing Finance Agency will begin accepting applications for the Vermont Homeowner Assistance Program from homeowners who have suffered financial hardship due to COVID-19. Loss of income or a significant rise in living expenses due to COVID-19 includes:
- Losing a job.
- Cutting work hours.
- Paying more for child care or medical care.
- Caring for a sick or older family member.
If you live in Vermont and are low-income, you may be eligible for financial assistance with housing. Mortgage arrears, HOA dues, property taxes, and utility assistance with past utility bills, like electric, fuel, fuel oil, and water bills, are all examples of things they can help with. In all likelihood, the program will continue for a few more years. You can contact them through the number 1-800-479-6151.
8. Efficiency Vermont
Efficiency Vermont offers free or reduced-cost services to renters, homeowners, and landlords who qualify financially. Suppose you pay a disproportionate amount of your monthly payment for electricity. Contact them at (888) 921-5990 if you need financial assistance with utilities.
9. Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Helping renters and property owners in Vermont with assistance with a utility bill is central to the objective of the Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program. They hope to provide resources that will encourage qualified tenants and landlords to collaborate on projects to strengthen and improve their neighborhoods and lives.
You may receive help with rent arrears, current rent, utility arrears, current utility payments, and other housing-related expenses will all be covered by the program. Cash for transport, courthouse lodging, and necessary repairs is also included. You can contact them through the number 833-488-3727.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vermont offers a comprehensive array of financial assistance programs designed to support low-income families. These initiatives encompass a variety of needs, including healthcare, food security, childcare, and housing, thereby addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by financially disadvantaged households. The state’s commitment to these programs demonstrates its recognition of the importance of supporting all community members.
This ensures they have access to necessities and opportunities for improvement. Continued investment and awareness of these programs are crucial for maintaining and enhancing the support system, enabling Vermont’s low-income families to achieve excellent stability and prosperity.