5 THINGS TO KNOW: How to get help with your heating bill from Summit Utilities

Derrick James, McAlester News-Capital, Okla.
·2 min read

Nov. 10—Summit Utilities and the United Way give information on how customers of Summit Utilities can receive help on their past due heating bills this winter.

1 What is the program?

The Summit Heating Assistance Program is administered by the Heart of Arkansas United Way. The program provides assistance for Summit customers in Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texarkana, TX.

Program funds will assist Summit customers to pay past due natural gas bills up to $200 per year during the heating season: November 1, 2023 — March 29, 2024, or until funds have been depleted.

The program is funded by the generosity of Summit customers who opt-in to financially assist their neighbor. Additional support comes from its parent company, Summit Utilities, Inc., and Summit team members.

2 How do I know if I qualify for heating assistance?

Those interested in applying must show proof they are a Summit customer. Customers can show proof by providing the 12-digit account number, which is shown on Summit Utilities billing statement, located at the top corner right of the invoice. They must also have a copy of a past-due bill.

The person applying for heating assistance must be the same as the customer of record on the account.

The Summit Heating Assistance fund cannot assist with making payments toward inactive accounts, or provide payment assistance toward deposits, connect fees, etc.

3 How do I apply for assistance?

Applications can be found online at heartaruw.org/Summit.

4 What other resources are available for utility assistance?

Along with Summit Heating Assistance program, there are other financial assistance programs for eligible low-income households through federally funded and crisis assistance programs. For more information visit https://summitutilities.com/my-account/assistance-programs or call customer service from 7am to 7pm Monday-Friday at 800-992-7552.

5 How is the Summit Heating Assistance Program funded?

Financial support comes from Summit Utilities Inc., Summit team members and generous customers who give to the Summit Heating Assistance Fund via their monthly utility bills.

—Derrick James