DTE has a variety of energy assistance programs to help customers get back on track.
DTE never wants anyone to fall behind or go without energy and works hard to help customers avoid an interruption. They encourage customers to reach out as soon as they think they may not be able to pay an upcoming bill.
Every day, DTE connects customers to energy assistance to avoid an interruption of service. Working closely with state and agency partners, DTE was able to provide nearly $144 million in financial assistance to vulnerable customers last year alone. There are a variety of energy assistance programs to help get customers back on track with their energy bills. Read on to learn about the different types of assistance that are available and to see if you qualify.
Financial assistance
- State Emergency Relief (SER): Administered by Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), SER provides immediate help if you have a past due bill, disconnect notice or home repairs.
- Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): If you submit an SER application, you may be eligible for additional financial assistance through MEAP.
- Home Heating Credit: You may be eligible for a Home Heating Credit for the 2024 tax year to help offset winter heating bills.
- Residential Income Assistance Credit (RIA): You may qualify for a monthly credit on your account equal to the electric service charge and/or the gas customer charge.
Payment programs
- Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP): This 24-month program allows you to keep up with energy bills and eliminate arrears through a fixed payment plan.
- Payment Agreement: This installment plan is available for all customers needing more time to pay off their past due balance. The agreement includes a down payment and monthly installments.
Shutoff protection
- Active Military Protection: If you are called to full-time active military duty during a national or state emergency, you can apply for shutoff protection for up to 90 days and can then reapply for extensions.
- Critical Care & Medical Emergency Protection: If you require a life support system in your house or have a proven medical emergency, you may be eligible for restoration of service or delay in shutoff. You will need a Medical Certification Form completed by your physician or public health office.
- Senior Winter Protection: Protects all customers aged 65 and older from disconnects during the heating season (Nov. 1 – March 31).
- Winter Protection Plan: Prevents service disconnection during the heating season (Nov. 1 – March 31). To remain on the plan, you must pay at least 7% of your estimated annual bill during the protection period.
- Shutoff Protection Plan: This plan provides year-round protection from service disconnects if monthly payments are met. You will need to pay a down payment to enroll. This program is also available to seniors 65 and older*.
Energy Efficiency Assistance
- Energy Efficiency Assistance Program (EEA): This program provides FREE energy efficiency upgrades to single-family and multifamily customers.
- Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program: This program provides free home energy conservation services that help reduce energy use and lower utility bills.
If you or anyone you know needs assistance, find more information about the programs above at dteenergy.com/help or call DTE at 800-477-4747.