We understand the importance of energy in your life, and our goal is to keep your services turned on. Throughout the year, we work with government agencies and community organizations to offer payment assistance to income-qualified residents.
If you are behind on your energy bill, we will work with you to discuss payment plan options or direct you to energy assistance agencies in your area. For more information, contact us at (800) 477-4747.
This video describes which documents and information you will need to provide when applying for energy assistance.
To receive specific types of energy assistance, we allow your income to be at or above a certain percentage of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
For each additional person within a household, add $4,720.
Based on your income, you could qualify for energy assistance or a payment plan to help pay your past-due balance or current bill.
Within the table below, determine the number of members in your household and then your monthly or yearly income. Then decide if you might qualify for a specific type of energy assistance or payment plan.
1 State Emergency Relief
2 Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan
3 The Heat and Warmth Fund
4 Michigan Community Action
Some non-profit agencies may provide assistance to households with a higher income level than listed above. Contact the specific agency for details.
To learn more about foreclosure prevention assistance for Wayne County residents call (877) 693-6199.
Assistance with money-saving home weatherization may be available to those who qualify. Weatherization includes caulking, weather stripping, insulation and programmable thermostats. For more information, call our Energy Efficiency Contact Center at (866) 796-0512.
A federal earned income tax credit is available based on income level and number of qualifying child dependents. To apply, you must file a federal income tax return with Schedule EIC. You can receive part of the credit in your paycheck by completing a W5 form with your employer for Advanced EIC or you can apply for the credit at tax time. To learn more, contact the IRS at (800) 829-3676.
Low-income customers, at or below 110% of the federal poverty level, may be eligible for a home heating credit for the 2021 tax year to help pay winter heating bills. Ask your local tax preparer or seek free assistance from the Accounting Aid Society at (866) 673-0873 or (313) 556-1920.
The Michigan Community Action member service network provides energy assistance and home weatherization to reduce energy use and lower utility bills to income eligible customers. All services to qualified applicants are free. For more information, call (517) 321-7500.
If you are below 150% of the federal poverty level, you may qualify for a $7.50 per month credit on your electric account and/or a $13.50 per month credit on your gas account.
To determine eligibility for the Residential Income Assistance credit, the following documentation is required for income verification and can be emailed directly to RIA@dteenergy.com. Allow for 48 -72 hours for processing of documentation.
If qualified and enrolled, income must be verified every 12 months to continue receiving the credit.