A timely reminder from Neil Neroutsos at Snohomish PUD about assistance programs available to Everett senior citizens and those with lower incomes who may need help paying their power bill.

In the coming year, Snohomish County Public Utility District expects its energy assistance programs to help more than 17,000 senior citizens and low-income customers struggling with their electric bills. The programs currently provide reductions of 20 percent, 40 percent, or 60 percent off PUD electric and water bills. The discount percentage that a customer receives depends on their income level.

As of October 1, 2013, the low-income discount is available to PUD customers who have a household annual income that is below 125 percent of the federal poverty level ($29,438 for a family of four). Also eligible for discounts are senior citizens who are 62 years of age or older and have a combined disposable annual income of less than $27,381.

For an application or more information about the PUD’s assistance programs, customers should visit www.snopud.com (click on “Your Account”) or call Customer Service at 425-783-1000.

Additional Assistance Programs:

Project PRIDE: Administered by the local chapter of the American Red Cross, this program raises voluntary contributions from PUD ratepayers. The money goes to low-income customers who need help with their bills. For more information, call the Red Cross at 425-252-4103.

Helping Hands: This program receives donations from PUD employees to help low-income senior citizens with their electric bills. The program is funded in a variety of ways, including employee payroll deductions, a holiday bazaar fundraiser and book fairs. For more information, call PUD Customer Service at 425-783-1000 (Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.).