PIPP Eligibility Expanded

posted 8/1/22 -- Last week, eligibility was expanded for a program designed to make utilities more affordable for low-income Ohioans.

Gov. Mike DeWine signed an Executive Order July 27 raising the eligibility for the PIPP Program from 150% of the federal poverty level to 175% of the FPL. The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) Program allows eligible residents to reduce their energy bills to a percentage of their income and avoid crisis situations.

Once enrolled, PIPP customers must make their regular payments in order to remain on the program. Staying current also earns PIPP customers credit toward arrearages. Under PIPP households that heat with gas pay 5% of their household income to their gas company and 5%of their household income to their electric company. All electric households pay 10% of their income to their electric company.

PIPP applications do not require a local appointment. Apply through the State of Ohio by visiting energyhelp.ohio.gov. All applications must come through the system where they are secure and can be tracked.

Online applications can take up to eight weeks to process. Applications can also be printed and mailed; however, those can take up to 12 weeks to process and cannot be tracked. Paper applications dropped off to LCCAA will be forwarded to the State of Ohio at the agency’s expense. This will save you postage but may cause additional delays.

If you are locked out of the state’s website, call 440-245-1870 and ask for help. Energy services staff will submit a request for assistance to the State on your behalf.

Learn more about PIPP, its benefits and tips for making the most of the program by clicking here.