Error:

Javascript is disabled in this browser. This page requires Javascript. Modify your browser's settings to allow Javascript to execute. See your browser's documentation for specific instructions.

Customer Assistance Programs

City of Austin Utilities

Emergency Financial Assistance Available

Residential customers experiencing financial hardships as well as those impacted by COVID-19 can receive help with their utility bills.

Apply Now

City of Austin Utility Bill Relief

As our community comes together to respond to the concerns of COVID-19, the City has taken steps to ensure customers have uninterrupted access to utility services and that customers experiencing hardships due to COVID-19 can get immediate utility bill help.

These measures are in effect from now until September 30, 2020:

All utility disconnects for non-payment are suspended and all late fees are waived.
All customers in need will be placed on payment arrangements.
Regulatory electric charges are reduced by 32% for residential and commercial customers, which will result in about a 4% reduction of the total bill. This change for residential customers is in effect immediately and on May 1, 2020 for commercial customers.
Rates for all residential electric customers are set at 7.814 cents/kWh for usage above 1,000 kWh.
Residential water rates (Tiers 1-3) and wastewater (Tiers 1-2) volume are reduced by 10%.
Customer Assistance Program (CAP) Utility Bill Discounts on electric charges are increased from 10% to 15%. Customers with household incomes at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level may receive the CAP discount.
The Financial Support Plus 1 fund has received additional funding. Customers who experience financial hardship due to the effects of COVID-19 are eligible for the Plus 1 Program.

Get more information about City of Austin Bill Relief

The City of Austin offers programs to help customers facing temporary and long-term financial difficulties as well as serious medical problems.

There are eligibility requirements for each program.

CAP Utility Bill Discounts — If you or someone in your household participates in certain state, federal, or local assistance programs, you may be able to receive discounts on your utility bill.
Financial Support Plus 1 — The Plus 1 fund provides emergency financial help if you are having temporary difficulty paying utility bills. Customers may also contribute to this fund via their monthly utility bills.
Payment Arrangement — A payment arrangement allows you to pay off a past due bill balance over time to keep your utility account in good standing.
Services for the Medically Vulnerable — If someone in your household has a long-term disease or critical illness, you may be eligible for the City’s registry of medically vulnerable customers and receive special support services.
Weatherization Assistance — In addition to these City of Austin programs, Austin Energy offers no-cost home energy improvements to qualifying customers with low-to-moderate incomes. The improvements reduce energy costs, address health and safety issues, and enhance comfort.