​WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 30, 2020) – Many assistance programs are available for Pepco customers who may be facing challenges paying their energy bill due to the impact of COVID-19, including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The application period for Maryland customers recently opened on July 1, while the District of Columbia remains in its current funding year with help still available for local residents. Customers in both the District of Columbia and Maryland may receive up to $1,000 or more in grant support through LIHEAP toward their energy bill by applying for assistance in their state.

"We are committed to helping all our customers meet their energy needs and manage their bills," said Donna Cooper, Pepco region president. "If customers are facing challenges, we encourage them to review the different programs and billing options we offer and take advantage of available energy assistance. Our Customer Care team is ready to help all customers review their payment options and support them in managing their energy needs."

LIHEAP grant eligibility differs by state and is based on a customer's annual household income and size. Homeowners, renters, roomers, and subsidized housing tenants may be eligible. Customers do not have to be behind on their bills to receive a grant. 

Maryland's maximum monthly income eligibility requirements are as follows:

• $1,861 - One-person household
• $2,515 - Two-person household
• $3,168 - Three-person household
• $3,821 - Four-person household
  

Washington, D.C.'s maximum monthly income eligibility requirements are as follows:

• $2,734 - One-person household
• $3,575 - Two-person household
• $4,417 - Three-person household
• $5,258 - Four-person household
  

Maryland residents can apply for assistance online through Department of Human Services website, or by calling the Office of Home Energy Programs at 1-800-332-6347. District of Columbia residents can apply for assistance and get more information on benefits at the District's Department of Energy and Environment website.

Pepco Customer Care will work with customers who may have difficulty paying their energy bill. The company offers payment options, like Budget Billing, which averages payments over a 12-month period to help customers manage their monthly energy bill, or flexible payment arrangements that offer individually tailored payment installment plans. Contact Pepco at 202-833-7500 to review payment options.

Other programs supporting District customers include:

• The Utility Discount Program (UDP) assists low-income District residents reduce their utility costs. Eligible customers may receive a discount of up to $475 per year on their electric bill ($300 per year if non-electric heat).  District residents can visit the Department of Energy and the Environment website at https://doee.dc.gov/udp to apply online.
• The Greater Washington Urban League provides up to $500 in assistance to eligible customers facing disconnection. Customers can call 202-265-8200 or visit www.gwul.org.
  

Other programs supporting Maryland customers include:

• The Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) helps eligible customers pay for a portion of their current electric bill. The Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA) program helps customers with large, past due electric and gas bills. If eligible, customers may receive forgiveness of up to $2,000 towards their past due bill. The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) is designed to help low-income families during the heating season. Information regarding these programs can be found on the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs website or by calling 1-800-332-6347.
• Income eligible Montgomery County residents can receive energy assistance from Interfaith Works by calling 301-762-8682.

In addition, the Arrearage Management Program (AMP) allows qualifying Pepco customers in the District of Columbia the option of reducing or eliminating outstanding balances on residential accounts. To be eligible to participate in AMP, you must:

• Be a Pepco customer participating in our Residential Aid Discount program.
• Have a minimum balance of $300 or more that is at least 60 days past due.

For further information about the AMP program, please contact Pepco at 202-496-5830 or e-mail EnergyAssistanceMailbox@pepco.com

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