NIPSCO, state agencies and other local organizations are partnering once again to help families who are struggling to pay their heating bills this winter.

Enrollment for the federal low-income energy assistance program (EAP) is now open.

“Winter weather can make utility bills a challenge for a family in need,” said Kimberly Ferrell, manager of NIPSCO’s customer contact center. “To help, there are a number of assistance programs available, and we strongly encourage customers to reach out as soon as they start experiencing difficulties. Our goal is to make sure that all homes in our communities stay safe and warm this winter.”

Assistance programs include:

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP):

LIHEAP support is available to households falling within 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines. Between Nov. 1 and March 15, Indiana utilities do not disconnect service to customers enrolled in LIHEAP who are behind on their bills.

NIPSCO Customer Assistance for Residential Energy (CARE) Discount Program:

The NIPSCO CARE Discount Program is designed to provide further gas bill reductions to LIHEAP-eligible customers. Once enrolled in LIHEAP, customers are automatically enrolled in the program.

NIPSCO Hardship Program:

For customers just outside the federal poverty guidelines for LIHEAP, the NIPSCO Hardship Program offers up to $400 in gas bill assistance to households between 151 and 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

NIPSCO customer care agents trained to help connect customers with available funds are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST at 1-800-4-NIPSCO (1-800-464-7726).

Eligibility is based on income and family size. More information and a listing of agencies that help administer assistance programs is available at

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The following information is usually required when applying for LIHEAP at an agency; however, be sure to contact the agency for the complete list of documentation you will need to provide:

- Indiana picture ID

- Social Security cards for all household members

- NIPSCO bill

- Proof of residency

- Proof of income