Iowa’s annual winter moratorium regarding utility service disconnection ended April 1. Since April 1 was a Saturday, service shut-offs could begin on April 3. The end of the moratorium on disconnection of service for nonpayment often brings inquiries from customers who have been unable to keep up with their utility bills. To avoid disconnection, the Iowa Utilities Board encourages customers to review their utility’s disconnection policies and procedures and contact their utility immediately to avoid natural gas or electric service shutoff and make payment arrangements. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) program assists thousands of Iowans with a portion of their heating bills every year. LIHEAP-qualified customers are also protected from utility service disconnection from November 1 through April 1 annually. The end of the winter moratorium period can be stressful for customers. To assist customers during this time of the year, remember: Consumers can apply for LIHEAP through April 30. Local community action agencies may have additional resources. 211 Iowa is a resource for assistance with utility payments, housing, and other information that may provide financial relief to customers.