Winter Utility Service Disconnection Moratorium Ends Today

Utilities can begin service shutoffs as of today. The annual winter moratorium for utility service disconnection in Iowa runs through April 1st. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program (LIHEAP) helps thousands of people across the state each year from November 1st through April 1st. The Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) is encouraging customers who have been unable to keep up with their utility bills to contact their utility company immediately to avoid a natural gas or electric service shutoff and to make payment agreements.

Customers can continue to apply for LIHEAP through April 30th. In addition, IUC states that local community action agencies like HACAP may be able to offer additional resources.

For nonpayment of a bill, Iowa utilities must provide written notice to customers at least 12 days before disconnection. Although, those who have defaulted on a payment agreement may be disconnected with a 24-hour notice. 211 Iowa is a resource people can contact for assistance with utility payments, housing, and other information regarding financial relief.