The Lakewood Resource and Referral Center (LRRC), in collaboration with the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ (HCDNNJ), is pleased to announce a Energy Bill Assistance Event. This event will help eligible households apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Universal Service Fund (USF) to reduce heating and cooling costs.

Date: Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Location: LRRC - 212 2nd St, Suite 204, Lakewood, NJ 08701

IMPORTANT:

The utility shut-off moratorium has ended, and accounts with past-due balances are at risk of disconnection. This outreach day is an opportunity for those who have not yet applied to get the help they need.

Eligibility Requirements:

To qualify for LIHEAP and USF benefits, applicants must:

• Be responsible for home heating or cooling costs, either directly or included in rent
• Have a gross income at or below 60% of the State Median Income, as shown below

IMPORTANT:

This event is only for individuals who have not yet applied for assistance. See instructions below for those who have already applied and are waiting for their applications to be processed.

How to Sign Up:

Participation is by appointment only. To secure an appointment, visit Online Scheduler or call 732-942-9292 ext. 118.

Required Documents:

To ensure a smooth and complete application process, attendees should bring the following required documents:

Proof of Identification (for all household members)

• Driver's license or state-issued ID
• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Passport or immigration documentation (if applicable)

Proof of Income (for all household members over 18)

• Pay stubs (most recent four consecutive weeks of income)
• Social Security, SSDI, SSI, pension, or other government assistance award letters
• Unemployment benefit statement
• Child support/alimony payment records
• Self-employment income records or recent tax return (if applicable)

Proof of Residency

• Lease, mortgage statement, or rental agreement

Utility Bills

• Most recent electric bill
• Most recent gas or heating bill

Proof of Household Size

• Birth certificates or Social Security cards for all household members

Proof of Other Assistance (if applicable)

• TANF, SNAP (Food Stamps), WIC, or Medicaid eligibility documentation

Important Notes:

• All documents must be current and legible to ensure accurate processing.
• Missing documentation may result in delays or an inability to complete the application.

If You Already Applied:

If you applied to HEAP and USF over 90 days ago and haven't received a response, follow up with the agency that helped you apply. Here are some tips:

• OCEAN Inc. applications: Email oceanhea@oceaninc.org or visit 1256 Indian Head Plaza
• CARC applications: Call 732-961-3760, email energyassistance@carcnj.org (include name and application ID in subject line), or visit the Lakewood office
• Other agencies: Contact them directly
• Unsure which agency: Call the State Utility Hotline at 800-510-3102

If you receive a shutoff notice, you can apply for Emergency Assistance through the agency processing your HEAP/USF application.

If you've been approved or denied HEAP/USF but still have a past-due bill, you may be eligible for the PAGE Program or NJ SMART through NJ Shares. For more information about these programs, view the LRRC Utility Brochure here

Don't wait until it's too late!

Secure your appointment today and get the assistance you need to keep your utilities connected.