Money available to Vermonters struggling to pay utility bills

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) - Gov. Phil Scott says $8 million is available to Vermonters with overdue utility bills.

“Many Vermonters are struggling to keep up with their basic expenses because of this pandemic, and these grant funds provide necessary relief for those who’ve fallen behind on utility bills,” said Scott, R-Vermont. “I’m grateful to the cooperation of Legislature and the Public Service team in funding and implementing this program.”

The money comes from the federal CARES Act and will help pay bills that are more than 60 days overdue and face disconnection if the bills continue to go unpaid. Tenants and landlords can apply for the program to pay bills from Vermont electric or natural gas companies, fixed-line telephone service providers or private water companies.

Applications will be accepted through November 30, 2020, and grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or by the program’s end date on December 20, 2020, whichever comes first.

For more information about the program and to apply, visit publicservice.vermont.gov or contact the Department at psd.consumer@vermont.gov or 1-800-622-4496.

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