Texas Utility Assistance & Consumer Protection
Texas Electricity Bill Assistance Directory: Programs & PUCT Rules
If you are facing a temporary financial hardship, high seasonal electricity bills, or a disconnection notice, Texas offers multiple state-administered relief programs and statutory payment protections. You do not have to navigate utility assistance alone.
Immediate Help Hotline: Dial 2-1-1 from any Texas phone or visit 211texas.org to connect with local Community Action Agencies administering the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and emergency utility funds in your county.
1. Your Consumer Rights Under PUCT Rule §25.480: Deferred Payment Plans
Before facing disconnection, every residential customer in Texas competitive choice territories has rights under PUCT Substantive Rule §25.480:
- Mandatory Deferred Payment Plan: If you cannot pay your full bill, your retail electric provider (REP) must offer a deferred payment plan if you have not been disconnected in the preceding 12 months and meet the rule’s other conditions (for example, no more than two insufficient-funds payments in that period).
- Initial Down Payment Cap: The provider cannot require an initial payment of more than 50% of the overdue balance, with the remaining balance spread over at least five monthly billing cycles.
- Extreme Weather Disconnection Ban (PUCT §25.483): Disconnections are prohibited during National Weather Service (NWS) Heat Advisories, Excessive Heat Warnings, or when temperatures drop to 32°F or below.
2. Official Texas Energy Assistance Programs (CEAP & LIHEAP)
| Program Name | Administering Agency | Who Qualifies | Benefit Provided |
|---|---|---|---|
| CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program) | TDHCA / Local Community Action Agencies | Households at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines | Help paying utility bills and, in some cases, energy-related repairs; benefit amounts vary by agency and household |
| Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | TDHCA / Regional Nonprofits | Income-qualified homeowners and renters | Free home insulation, air sealing, and HVAC efficiency upgrades to lower bills permanently |
3. Find Your Local Agency
Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211texas.org to be connected with the Community Action Agency that serves your county, or see the TDHCA CEAP page for the statewide program.