Utility Assistance Resources in Texas
Last updated September 11, 2026
Struggling to pay an electric, gas, or water bill in Texas can happen to anyone — especially during the state's brutal summers and unexpected winter freezes. Several federally funded and state-administered programs exist to help Texans keep their utilities on, and eligibility is often broader than people expect. Income limits, household size, and the presence of young children, elderly members, or people with disabilities can all work in your favor when applying.
The fastest way to find what's available in your specific county is to call or text 2-1-1, the free statewide helpline operated by United Way of Texas. Trained specialists are available around the clock and can connect you with local utility assistance funds, application sites, and deadlines you won't find with a simple internet search. You can also search online at 211texas.org.
If you're already past due or facing a disconnection notice, act quickly — many programs prioritize households with shut-off notices, and some can issue payments directly to your utility provider within days. Gather recent utility bills, proof of income, and a photo ID before you call so the process moves faster.
Key programs in Texas
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — Texas
Helps eligible low-income households pay heating and cooling bills, and in some cases covers costs to repair or replace unsafe heating or cooling equipment. In Texas, LIHEAP funds are administered through local community action agencies and nonprofits across the state.
How to access: Call 2-1-1 or visit the Texas Health and Human Services website (hhs.texas.gov) to find the LIHEAP-administering agency in your county. You can also search for 'LIHEAP Texas' at benefits.gov. Eligibility is generally based on household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, but thresholds can vary by local administering agency.
2-1-1 Texas (United Way Helpline)
A free, confidential statewide information and referral service that connects Texans with local utility assistance funds, emergency bill-pay programs, weatherization help, and more. Many county-level and nonprofit utility funds are only discoverable through 2-1-1.
How to access: Call or text 2-1-1 from anywhere in Texas, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also chat or search online at 211texas.org. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers.
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) — Community Services
TDHCA funds local community action agencies across Texas that provide emergency utility assistance, weatherization services to reduce energy costs long-term, and case management to help households achieve energy stability.
How to access: Visit tdhca.state.tx.us and navigate to the Community Affairs division to find a local community action agency near you, or call 2-1-1 for a direct referral. Services and availability vary by county.
Utility Company Customer Assistance Programs
Most major Texas electric and gas utilities — including Oncor, AEP Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Atmos Energy, and others — operate their own income-based assistance programs, budget billing plans, and disconnect protection options for qualifying customers, including those who are elderly, disabled, or have young children.
How to access: Call the customer service number on your utility bill and ask specifically about low-income assistance programs, payment arrangements, or hardship funds. You can also visit your utility's website and search for 'assistance programs' or 'payment help.' Ask about any state-mandated disconnection protections as well.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) — Eldercare Locator
Older Texans (generally 60+) may qualify for additional utility assistance, weatherization, and energy bill help through their local Area Agency on Aging, which coordinates services funded under the Older Americans Act.
How to access: Call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 (free, Monday–Friday) or visit eldercare.acl.gov to find your local AAA in Texas. You can also call 2-1-1 and ask to be connected to aging services in your area.
Utility Assistance resources for Texas
Bell County Indigent Health / Utility Help (Community Action)
Community Action program offering utility and energy-bill assistance to eligible Bell County households.
Texas LIHEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program)
Statewide help with electricity, heating and cooling bills for income-eligible Texas households.
211 Utility Assistance
NationwideLocal programs for electric, gas, and water bill help. Dial 211.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance)
NationwideFederal program helping eligible households with heating, cooling, and energy bills.
Other resources in Texas
- Housing Assistance in Texas
- Food Assistance in Texas
- Transportation Assistance in Texas
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Texas
- Mental Health Resources in Texas
- Domestic Violence Resources in Texas
- Disability Resources in Texas
- Veteran Resources in Texas
- Child & Family Assistance in Texas
- Senior Resources in Texas