Utilities Payment Help Increased to Columbus Residents Affected by COVID-19
The City
of Columbus is making additional funding from the 2020 federal Coronavirus,
Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act available for utility assistance
grants to Columbus residents. These funds will be distributed to help families
who have been unable to pay for utilities because of issues related to the Coronavirus
pandemic.
The
Department of Public Utilities' CARES Act Assistance Program offers one-time
payment aid of up to $750 toward an eligible Columbus water/sewer/stormwater
bill, and/or up to $500 toward an eligible power bill. Residents who qualify
can receive financial help for unpaid or overdue utility charges that are at a
point of service disruption.
“We know
that many residents are struggling with the economic impact of COVID-19,
whether that be job loss or reduction in hours,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther.
“Through CARES Act funding, we are working to help residents meet their basic
needs for clean drinking water and electricity with one-time payments toward
overdue utility bills.”
To be
eligible for the assistance, applicants must have an active City of Columbus
water, sewer or power account for their residence in their name (or spouse's
name), be at least 90 days delinquent in payment, and meet at least one of the
following requirements:
- Household income less than 150% of the current
U.S. Bureau of Census federal poverty level
- Currently enrolled in a qualifying low income
program with Department of Utilities
- Proof of job loss or reduction in income due
to the pandemic
Funding is
limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Bill payment
assistance cannot exceed the total current balance on a customer account.
Approved customers will receive a one-time credit on their account. This
program does not apply to AEP accounts or those located outside of the City of
Columbus.
"We
know that the COVID-19 pandemic isn't just a health crisis; it's an economic
one,” said Councilmember Rob Dorans. “I commend Director Davies and Mayor
Ginther in our efforts to provide aid for those families in need. These CARES
Act dollars will literally help keep the lights on and make sure that families
have access to water across Central Ohio during the toughest months of the
pandemic. I urge residents to take advantage of this assistance and encourage
others you may know in need to access these funds to help soften the economic
impact of this crisis."
In
addition to applying for this emergency bill assistance, customers with
delinquent accounts are also encouraged to set up a payment plan to avoid
potential shut offs in the future.
Details on
these programs are available at: https://www.columbus.gov/payassist.
For questions, contact Customer Service at 614-645-8276 Monday - Friday 7AM-6PM,
or email [email protected].