We know some of our customers faced financial hardships due to COVID-19. If you’re struggling to pay your bill, we've provided resources below to help.
Federal Funds Available
Iowa rent and utility assistance program
General eligibility requirements require that applicants:
- Be current renters earning no more than 80% of their county’s area median income
- Have experienced a documented financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic
- Can demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability which may include a past due utility or rent notice or eviction notice
Assistance available:
- Rent assistance for past due and future payments
- Utility payments owed at time of application (no future payments)
Approved funds will be paid directly to landlords and utility service providers.
Local support agencies
| Organization | Website | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| New Opportunities Inc. | http://www.communityopportunitiesinc.org | 712-792-9266 |
| Hawkeye Area Community Action Program | https://www.hacap.org/ | 712-792-9266 |
| Matura Action Corp. | http://www.maturacommunityaction.maturaact.org/ | 641-782-8431 |
| Mid-Iowa Community Action | http://www.micaonline.org | 641-752-7162 |
| North Iowa Community Action Organization | http://www.nicao-online.org | 641-423-8993 |
| Northeast Iowa Community Action Agency | http://www.neicac.org/ | 563-382-8436 |
| Operation Threshold | http://www.operationthreshold.org/ | 319-291-2065 |
| IMPACT Community Action Program | http://www.impactcap.org | 515-274-1334 |
| Upper Des Moines Opportunity Inc. | http://www.udmo.com | 712-859-3885 |
| West Central Community Action Agency | http://www.westcentralca.com/ | 712-755-5135 |
211 is a nationwide service that connects millions of people to help each year. They provide a local source of social services available to help with utility bill payment assistance, housing options, food and nutrition programs, support groups, and much more.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that keeps families safe and healthy by helping with energy costs. Learn how and where to apply for energy assistance here.
Black Hills Cares helps eligible customers in need pay their Black Hills Energy bills or emergency energy-related expenses. The program uses voluntary donations from our customers and employees.
We understand that a variety of circumstances can lead to a late payment, and we’re here to help you get back on track by offering payment arrangements.
Budget Billing is a free, stable payment plan. It gives you more predictable bills by averaging the amount you pay each month.
This program is available to residential customers whose utility service is medically essential, as certified by a licensed physician, to avoid death or serious medical complications requiring immediate hospitalization.