• Termination notice
• Not on public assistance
• Repayment
• Failing to repay
• Public assistance sanction
• Different name on bill
• Negative cash flow
• Required documents

• Other aid programs

What do I do if I receive a termination notice from the gas company?

You should take these steps, in this order:

(1) Go to the gas company and ask to make a "Deferred Payment Arrangement" (DPA). If you have a very low income, they may offer you a plan where you may pay your current monthly bill, plus an extra $10.00. If the gas company will not offer you a DPA, ask for the reasons for the denial in writing.

(2) If it is HEAP season, apply for HEAP benefits. Go to DSS Monday through Friday. DSS is located on the first floor of the Rath Building (95 Franklin Street).

(3) Apply for emergency assistance through DSS. This is separate from HEAP. First get HEAP and then apply for emergency assistance.
 

What if my utilities are shut off and I am not on public assistance?

If you are not on public assistance and your utilities already have been (or are about to be) shut off, you may still be eligible for assistance. You should apply immediately for emergency assistance, because in some cases, it is only given to applicants for four months immediately proceeding your application. This means that if your gas was shut off in May, and you go to DSS for emergency utility assistance in November, you may not be eligible for emergency assistance.
 

Will I have to pay back the money I receive for emergency assistance?

In many cases, yes. If you are on public assistance and it is determined that your grant was used improperly, you may be recouped. If you are recouped, then each month, 10% of your grant will be taken out to repay the assistance received. If you are not on public assistance-- depending on your household income-- you may have to repay the grant by entering into a 12-month repayment agreement with DSS. In some cases, DSS may be able to take a lien on your home.
 

What if I do not keep up with my repayment agreement with DSS?

If you fail to keep the emergency assistance re-payment agreement and you need emergency assistance at a future date, your emergency application will be denied.
 

Am I eligible for emergency assistance if I am on a public assistance sanction?

Yes. You are still eligible for emergency assistance for utilities even if you are currently on a public assistance sanction.
 

What if the utility bill is not in my name?

In almost all instances, if the bill is not in your name and you make an application for emergency assistance, you will not receive assistance.
 

I obtained a cash flow sheet from National Fuel stating that I had a negative cash flow. DSS stated that I had a positive cash flow and refused to give me emergency assistance. What should I do?

DSS cannot deny emergency assistance because you have a positive cash flow. Contact Neighborhood Legal Services at 847-0650. Be sure to call at 9:00 AM sharp.
 

What documentation should I bring to DSS if I am requesting Emergency Assistance?

You must bring ALL of the following SEVEN forms:

(1) Proof of I.D.
(2) Proof of all income and expenses for at least 8 weeks
(3) Receipts for current bills (rent, etc.)
(4) A completed application for emergency assistance
(5) A statement from NFG stating that they will not offer you a payment arrangement and the reasons why
(6) A HEAP denial letter (if there is one)
(7) A deed to your house (if you own it)

You should report to the reception window as early as possible!
 

Are there other programs in our community to help with utility problems?

Yes. For more information, contact Project Dandelion, or visit the Neighborhood Legal Services' website (www.nls.org). Click on "Public Benefits" and then look to the "Utilities" section. These hotline letters outline community programs that help low-income consumers with utility problems. These programs often change due to eligibility and availability, so be sure to call the numbers listed for up-to-date information.