Intake sites   |   Request Info.   |   FAQ   |   Income Guidelines   |   Assistance Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the utility companies terminate service?

PECO Energy can terminate service if you are $25.00 behind in your bills. The Philadelphia Gas Works can shut off service when an account is $45.00 in arrears and the Philadelphia Water Department can terminate service at $75.00 behind. However, there is a moratorium for low-income customers where service is not stopped between December 1st through March 31st.

Am I eligible for help?

You are eligible for assistance if you meet several criteria. You must be a resident of Philadelphia, are within the income guidelines set forth by UESF and have not received a grant from UESF in the past two years. Additionally, bills in excess of $500 must be accompanied by payment above the UESF grant.

How often can I apply for assistance?

If you are approved for a grant, you may receive one grant in a two calendar year period. You will then become eligible on the second anniversary of your grant if you are income eligible.

Where do I go to apply?

You can call the central office at (215) 972-5170 or visit the Intake Sites page on this web site.

How much money will UESF grant?

The maximum allowable grant is $500.00. If the bill is in excess of $500, you are required to pay the balance.

Doesn't the government help low-income households?

The Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides funds to low-income homes. An additional resource, Crisis, is also available to assist people typically during the winter months. UESF provides emergency grants and is a supplement program rather than a replacement for government assistance.

How long does it take once the application is completed?

If someone is facing utility termination, when the client has been interviewed at one of the 13 intake sites and found eligible, a call from UESF to will stop the shut off immediately. From that point, the utility company will hold the status for 60 days to complete the transactions.

How are donations used?

Your donation will go directly to help a low-income household in need of assistance. Unlike other non-profit organizations, no donation is ever used for operational support. Each dollar that is donated to UESF has a direct impact in the community.

Where do I go for weatherization help?

The utility companies can provide you with resources for weatherization assistance if you qualify. In addition, the neighborhood energy centers and the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation will provide weatherization assistance.

Does UESF provide other assistance?

UESF will provide assistance for homebound residents. The Program Director will conduct the interview by telephone and through correspondence. Additionally, some residents may be eligible for other assistance that UESF can assist in seeking.

Can UESF help me when I am on a budget plan with the utility company?

UESF can only help when you have a shut off notice and the grant will cover the balance.

Will UESF provide air conditioners?

UESF does not provide clients with heaters, air conditioners or fans. There are other programs that may be of assistance with that request.

I don't live in Philadelphia, who can help me?

There are numerous programs in the Philadelphia area that will assist low-income households with utility assistance. Project Reach in Montgomery County, Delco Shares Its Warmth in Delaware County, Chester County Cares in Chester County and Project Heat in Bucks County may be of assistance.