Many families in Georgia struggle to cover expenses such as electricity, gas, rent, and other household bills. Fortunately, several government programs, nonprofit organizations, and utility assistance services provide financial help to residents who are having trouble paying their bills. These programs can help low-income households, seniors, and people facing temporary financial hardship.
This guide explains some of the most common programs that help pay bills in Georgia and how to apply for them.
One of the most important programs that helps with utility bills in Georgia is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. The program reduces the risk of utility shutoffs and helps families stay safe during extreme weather conditions.
Electric bills
Gas or heating bills
Energy crisis assistance
Home insulation and minor energy repairs
Payments are typically sent directly to the electric company to cover part of the bill. In Georgia, assistance payments are usually between $310 and $350, depending on eligibility and fund availability.
Low-income households
People 65 and older
People with disabilities
Families with incomes below 60% of the state median income
Applications are processed through local Community Action Agencies and are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis each year.
Project SHARE is another program that helps residents pay their energy bills. It is operated in partnership with The Salvation Army and utility companies.
What the program offers
Emergency assistance with electricity or gas bills
Assistance for people facing utility shutoffs
Short-term financial assistance for struggling households
The program is funded by donations from customers, businesses, and community organizations.
United Way operates the 211 Community Services Helpline, which connects residents with local financial assistance programs.
By calling 211, you can get information about:
Assistance with utility bills
Help with rent or mortgage payments
Food banks
Medical assistance
Emergency financial assistance
This service is free and available throughout Georgia.
Some utility companies in Georgia offer discount programs for seniors. These programs can lower monthly electricity or gas bills for qualifying customers.
For example:
Low-income households 65 and older may receive a monthly discount on their electricity bill.
These discounts are typically available through major utility companies, such as Georgia Power.
Georgia has several Community Action Agencies (CAAs) that help residents with various types of bills and provide financial support.
These agencies may offer:
Assistance with utility bills
Housing assistance
Food assistance programs
HVAC services
They also help administer programs like LIHEAP and other state-funded benefits.
Many local churches and charities in Georgia offer emergency financial assistance. These programs may help with:
Electric or gas bills
Rent payments
Food and groceries
Transportation costs
Organizations such as the Salvation Army and local faith groups often provide short-term assistance to families in crisis.
Some energy companies offer programs designed to help customers lower their monthly bills. These programs may include:
Free home energy audits
Rebates for energy-efficient appliances
HVAC assistance
For example, Georgia Power offers programs that help customers manage their energy use and reduce their electricity costs.
If you need help paying your bills, follow these steps:
Call 211 to find local assistance programs.
Contact your local Community Action Agency.
Apply for LIHEAP through the Georgia Department of Human Services.
Ask your utility company about discounts or programs for people with financial hardship.
Seek emergency assistance from local charities or churches.
If you are struggling to pay your bills in Georgia, there are several programs that can help. Government programs like LIHEAP, nonprofit organizations like the Salvation Army, and local Community Action Agencies provide financial assistance for utility bills and other household expenses. By contacting these programs early and applying as soon as funding becomes available, you can get the support you need to keep your home safe and comfortable.