How to apply for Winter Termination Program — Utility Shutoff Protection (New Jersey)

Who it's for

New Jersey's Winter Termination Program stops regulated gas and electric companies from shutting off service between November 15 and March 15 for customers who get Lifeline, LIHEAP (HEAP), the Universal Service Fund (USF), PAAD, SSI, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families or General Assistance, or who have applied for water-bill or similar assistance. Residential customers who cannot pay because of circumstances beyond their control — such as unemployment, illness, medical expenses or the recent death of an immediate family member — can self-certify to their utility or to the Board. Tell your utility which program you are in, and call NJBPU at 1-800-624-0241 if the utility does not honor the protection. You still owe the bill, so set up a payment plan and apply for Lifeline, USF or LIHEAP at the same time.

What you'll need

• Proof you receive Lifeline, LIHEAP, USF, PAAD, SSI, TANF or General Assistance (or have applied for water-bill assistance)
• For hardship cases: a self-certification to the utility or NJBPU describing the circumstances beyond your control

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Winter Termination Program — Utility Shutoff Protection (New Jersey). 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 proof you receive Lifeline, LIHEAP, USF, PAAD, SSI, TANF or General Assistance (or have applied for water-bill assistance), for hardship cases: a self-certification to the utility or NJBPU describing the circumstances beyond your control — 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.

Step by step

1. Gather proof that you get Lifeline, LIHEAP, USF, PAAD, SSI, TANF, or General Assistance, or proof that you applied for water-bill assistance.
2. If you cannot pay because of circumstances beyond your control, prepare a self-certification that explains the hardship, such as unemployment, illness, medical expenses, or the recent death of an immediate family member.
3. Apply online or call 1-800-624-0241 to request Winter Termination Program protection.
4. Tell your utility which qualifying program you are in, or give your self-certification if you are applying based on hardship.
5. Set up a payment plan with your utility and apply for Lifeline, USF, or LIHEAP if needed.
6. Call 1-800-624-0241 if your utility does not honor the protection. The Board of Public Utilities decides disputes.

What to expect: After you apply, your utility should review your proof or self-certification for winter shutoff protection. This protection applies only to regulated gas and electric utilities and only from November 15 to March 15. You still owe the balance, and the utility may require a payment arrangement. Renew protection each winter during the November 15 to March 15 period.

Renewals

each winter (November 15 – March 15)