Overcoming Utility Challenges: How to Manage Your Gas and Electric Bill and Save on Energy Costs

By Renee Dain, Sr. VP, Communications and External Affairs

Falling behind on your utility and energy bill can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Many people face challenges with utility bills at some point, whether due to unexpected expenses, job loss, or other financial difficulties. The stress of unpaid bills can be challenging, but understanding your options and taking proactive steps can make a big difference. The good news is that there are resources and strategies available to help you manage your energy costs and regain control. This blog will guide you through practical tips and solutions to help you get back on track.

What are some common utility challenges?

Poor home energy efficiency can lead to higher energy bills and discomfort during extreme weather.

Solution: Addressing this issue through weatherization services, such as adding insulation or sealing air leaks, can significantly reduce your energy costs while making your home more comfortable year-round.
Ensuring uninterrupted power for households with medical needs.

Solution: If you or anyone in your home has a serious illness or uses medical equipment, you may be eligible for a Public Service Commission Medical Certification Form. The Medical Certification Form states that the termination of your utility service would aggravate an existing serious illness or would prevent you from using your important medical equipment. This form must be signed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or a physician assistant and then sent to the utility company to have it on file. Having a signed Medical Certification Form on file with the utility has several benefits. The key is that the utility must know about the medical illness before any service termination. Learn more about the Medical Certification Form here.
Billing errors can lead to unexpected costs and financial stress.

Solution: Review your bill carefully and contact customer service to address any discrepancies.
Utility issues that remain unresolved can leave you feeling frustrated and powerless.

Solution: Learn how to file a formal complaint with the utility company or a regulatory agency to seek resolution.

What should I do if I’m behind on my utility bill and need help managing it?
Call your utility company and be sure to write down the name of the person you talked to, the date, and the time to maintain a record of the conversation.

Find out how much you owe: If you are behind on your utility bill, it might feel scary to call, but it is the best first step. Call your utility company, explain your situation, and ask how much you owe. Make sure the amount sounds correct, so you know what you are dealing with.
Ask about financial help: While talking to the utility company, ask if they have programs to help people pay their bills.
If you have a turn-off notice: If you have been told your service might be turned off, ask if you can get more time to pay. They might not say yes, but it is worth asking.
Tell them about medical issues: If someone in your home is very sick or uses medical equipment that needs power, tell the utility company. There are special rules to protect families in these situations. Learn more about the Medical Certification Form here.
Set up a payment plan: You can ask the utility company to let you pay off your bill in smaller amounts over time. Be ready to explain why you are behind and how you plan to catch up. They might ask for a down payment. Write down the name of the person you talked to, the date, and the time.
Use online tools: Many utility companies let you do things online, like checking your bill, setting up a payment plan, or asking for more time to pay. Look at their website to see what’s available.
Pay what you can: Even if you cannot pay the whole bill, try to pay something every month. It shows you are making an effort.

Are there financial resources to help pay a utility bill?
Yes! If you are struggling to pay your utility bill there is help available. You may consider applying for financial assistance from Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP), the Fuel Fund of Maryland or contact 211MD for additional resources. If you have a care coordinator (i.e., Supports Planner, Coordinator of Community Service, Clinical Care Coordinator), contact them for assistance in accessing resources.

OHEP: OHEP is a state-run program that helps income-eligible households pay their energy and fuel bills. You do not need a turn-off notice to apply. When you fill out the OHEP application you are applying for four grants and for free weatherization for your home to help lower your monthly costs.
- There are several ways to apply to OHEP.
  - 1) Apply online to energy assistance.
  - 2) Drop off or mail your completed application with all documents to your local OHEP office. Find the address to your local OHEP office here. For a fillable application, click here.
  - 3) Email your completed application with all documents to your local OHEP office. Find the email address to your local OHEP office here. For an fillable application, click here.
  - Check the status of your application at www.myohepstatus.org.

Fuel Fund: For those who need help with their energy bills and have already used OHEP or are over income for OHEP, Fuel Fund may be another option. The Fuel Fund of Maryland assists eligible BGE customers with paying their utility bills.
- For more information about the Fuel Fund or to apply for help, visit the Fuel Fund’s website to fill out an application or call 410-235-9080 for assistance.
  - 211: 211MD is a 24/7/365 helpline that provides information and referrals to other financial assistance resources in your area. You can contact them in three ways:
    - Dial 2-1-1 or 800-685-0185
    - Search for resources online at www.211md.org
    - Email them at info@211md.org

Don’t let a missed payment spiral into a bigger problem. Use these tips to take the first step toward managing your energy bills with confidence.

For more in-depth information and support, join our upcoming Community Enrichment Series Webinar on Tuesday, February 18th at Noon – 1:00 p.m., where we will dive deeper into Overcoming Utility Challenges with Brandi Nieland, Director of Consumer Assistance, from the Maryland Office of People’s Counsel. Learn more about the: