City of Austin releases new website to assist utility customers with applying for bill help
AUSTIN, Texas - The City of Austin is looking to help ensure utility customers experiencing hardships during the COVID-19 outbreak get immediate utility bill relief.
The Plus 1 Emergency Financial Support Program is meant to help customers who are facing financial difficulties and are unable to pay their utility bills due to unexpected circumstances. The city has made it easier for utility customers to apply for help by creating AustinBillHelp.com.
Utility customers are eligible for Plus 1 emergency assistance if they, or anyone in their household, have experienced financial hardships because of the coronavirus outbreak.
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“We know that some customers who have never had a problem paying their utility bill before may be having trouble now,” said Ronnie Mendoza, Customer Assistance Program Manager. “We continue to look for more ways to help our customers, and we will make getting that help as easy as possible.”
The city says financial hardships include coming down with the sickness, caring for a family member, shelter in place orders resulting in the closure of non-essential businesses, and school closures.
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City of Austin Utilities customers can email BillHelp@AustinEnergy.com or call 512-765-9721 for additional guidance about the Plus 1 Program.
The city is also encouraging any customers facing financial hardships due to COVID-19 to contact the City of Austin Utilities to discuss payment plan options, eligibility for other assistance, and ways to reduce energy use and bills.
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