Q. How can I apply for energy assistance?
Call one of the local OHEP offices to schedule an appointment to apply. You can apply for MEAP and Electric Universal Service at the same time. You may download and print an application for Energy Assistance from the Downloadable Applications and Brochures page of this web site or you can file online at www.marylandsail.org.
Q. I have a utility turn-off notice. Can OHEP help me?
Usually yes. Call the local OHEP office to schedule an appointment to apply. Tell them that you have a turn-off notice.
Q. How long will it take to have the MEAP grant credited to my account?
No payments to fuel suppliers are made before November. Payments to utility companies are usually not made until December. If you apply after December, it will normally take about 2 to 4 weeks before a grant is issued to the supplier. If you heat with oil, kerosene, propane, wood, or coal YOU will have to schedule a delivery. Payments to utility companies for electric or natural gas are credited to your account automatically. When they may appear on your bill depends on when the grant was received in the billing cycle. Electric Universal Service payments are about 2 to 4 weeks after application.
Q. What is USPP?
The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) protects low-income families from utility cut-offs and allows MEAP eligible households to enter into a year-round even monthly payment program with their utility company. An equal monthly payment plan based on the estimated cost of the customer’s average annual utility usage minus the MEAP benefit will be used to determine the even monthly payments for participation in the USPP.
Q. What do I do if my service is already OFF?
- Apply for MEAP and USPP. You must reduce your bill to $400 to have your service turned on. If your Electric Service is off, apply for Electric Universal Service.
- Find out if you are eligible for any additional energy resources:
- Emergency grants from Social Services
- Local fuel funds
- Renters Tax Credit Program
- Earned Income Credit
- Other sources identified by assisting agencies
- Figure out how much you can pay from your own funds. Ask family and friends if they can assist you. See if your clergy or neighborhood association can help.
- Talk directly to your utility about getting your service back on and to see if there are other payment plans available.
Q. What is the difference between MEAP and the Electric Universal Service Program?
MEAP is a federally funded program focused mainly on heating assistance. The Electric Universal Service Program is funded by Maryland ratepayers (Commercial, Industrial and Residential) and provides assistance for Electric customers.
Q. When can I apply?
You may apply for MEAP and the Electric Universal Service Program at any time during the program year (July 1 – May 7).
For additional Frequently Asked Questions, download our second Outreach Flyer (PDF). Additional Outreach flyers are also available from the Downloads page.
