Page 76

74

code a maximum of $400 of the benefit to electric and $400 to heating. Unused crisis assistance from one utility may not be waived to the other utility. The LSP must show in the client file how the crisis award was determined. The LSP must ensure that the benefit amount with crisis assistance is enough to prevent disconnection and maintain regular service. If the benefit amount including crisis is not enough to prevent a disconnection, the client should be asked to make a payment to the utility vendor for any past due amounts or deposits before the pledge is made, or the LSP may document that the utility provider agreed to continue service for the amount that the household qualifies for. The LSP is to withhold a benefit if the benefit amount is not enough to maintain active service and the client lacks the funds to pay the remaining balance or subsequent deposits. Note that the client contribution is not needed to ensure continuing service from December 1st through March 15th due to the utility shutoff moratorium. Example: A total electric home earning 8 points is awarded $300 (8 x $25 = 200, plus a $100 electric benefit amount). They present a disconnect notice of $175.00. They would receive $175 in crisis benefits and $300 in regular benefits for a total benefit of $475. Example: A total electric home earning 8 points is awarded $300 (8 x $25=200, plus a $100 electric benefit amount). They present a disconnect notice of $945.00. They would receive $800 crisis + $300 for a total of $1,100. The utility company states that it will accept a payment of $200 for the client to remain connected. The client would still receive the regular benefit and the crisis benefit. Full crisis would be awarded because even though the utility states it will accept $200 to continue service, we must mitigate the documented crisis to the greatest extent possible. Intake worker must make notes in the statewide database. Example: A total electric home earning 8 points would be awarded $300 (8 x $25=200, plus a $100 electric benefit amount). They present a disconnect notice of $1,500.00. They would receive $800 crisis + $300 for a total of $1,100. The utility company states that it needs the entire $1,500 for the client to remain connected. The client does not need to pay the remaining $400 before the benefit is released. Per the vendor MOA, upon acceptance of the benefit, the utility will delay disconnection or restore service for 30 days.

8.10 Crisis Benefits for Unregulated Utilities Clients with bulk fuels, such as propane, LP gas, fuel oil, wood, wood pellets, coal, corn, or biofuel are eligible for up to $400 in crisis benefits to assist with the delivery costs associated with these heating fuels. The crisis benefit may also assist with any outstanding arrearage on the household’s account in accordance with section 7.2. This crisis benefit should be awarded in its entirety up-front at the time of application. No applicant self-declaration of crisis is necessary.