The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is urging residents to apply for the Winter Termination Program (WTP), which began on November 15, 2024. This program prevents utility shutoffs for eligible customers during the winter months and complements other assistance programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez stated, "We understand the financial challenges that families sometimes face as they balance costs for housing, food, transportation, and healthcare, among other needs. We are committed to providing the support needed to keep families warm. If you're struggling with home heating costs this year, don't hesitate to contact the DCA. There is funding available."
Christine Guhl-Sadovy, President of the NJ Board of Public Utilities (BPU), added that "The Winter Termination Program ensures access to essential utility services for low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with medical conditions during the winter months." She emphasized that by preventing utility shutoffs, the program supports public health and safety while offering relief during colder months from November 15 to March 15.
Eligibility for WTP includes recipients of various federal and state assistance programs such as HEAP, TANF, SSI, PAAD, GA benefits, USF benefits, Lifeline Credit Program benefits, and those unable to pay due to circumstances beyond their control.
Administered by NJBPU, residents seeking more information should contact their utility company or call 1-800-624-0241. Those already in WTP are encouraged to make monthly payments when possible.
LIHEAP is one of several programs offered by DCA aimed at assisting households with basic resources like housing and heating. It helps households earning at or below 60% of the state median income cover energy costs. The Universal Service Fund (USF) also provides monthly credits on electric and gas bills under similar income criteria.
Applications for LIHEAP can be submitted through the DCAid portal at www.nj.gov/dca/dcaid or by calling 1-800-510-3102 for assistance from community action agencies. A list of these organizations is available on the DCA website.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and awarded first-come-first-served; hence timely application is advised.
The DCA offers a variety of programs including local government management and finance services among others.
