Benefits · Utility Assistance
How to apply for Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1 — emergency utility bill help (Travis County)
Austin Energy / City of Austin Utilities, in partnership with local social service agencies including the Aging and Disability Resource Center of the Capital Area (CAPCOG)
Who it's for
Emergency financial aid toward a City of Austin utility bill for residential customers who are having a temporary problem paying — after a serious illness, a job loss, or another emergency. The money is not applied for at Austin Energy: partner social service agencies screen applicants, decide eligibility, and pledge the funds directly to the customer's utility account. Older adults and people with disabilities in the Austin service area can start with the Aging and Disability Resource Center of the Capital Area at 855-937-2372, which is a Plus 1 partner; other partner agencies are listed at FinancialSupportPlus1.com. Some agencies serve only their existing clients or certain ZIP codes. Questions or trouble reaching an agency: billhelp@austinenergy.com or 512-494-9400.
You must be a City of Austin utility customer, and only a partner agency can approve and pledge Plus 1 funds — the ADRC is one such partner. Funding is limited and meant for a temporary crisis, not ongoing bill relief. City of Austin utilities also serve a few addresses outside Travis County; call 855-937-2372 if you are an Austin utility customer elsewhere.
What you'll need
- A current City of Austin utility account in your name
- Documentation of the emergency (job loss, medical bills, etc.) requested by the partner agency
- Any intake documents the partner agency requires (some serve only current clients)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-855-937-2372
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Austin Energy Financial Support Plus 1 — emergency utility bill help (Travis County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need a current City of Austin utility account in your name, documentation of the emergency (job loss, medical bills, etc.) requested by the partner agency, any intake documents the partner agency requires (some serve only current clients) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
one-time emergency assistance (agency discretion)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.