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2. LAA verifies any outstanding debt with the utility company

3. Determine eligibility for applicable OHEP benefits, including arrearage screening

4. If no usage history exists, refer to Section 3.5 for usage estimation procedures

5. Communicate application status and benefit amounts to applicant and utility company, ensuring benefits are tied to the new address

6. Benefits cannot be paid on closed accounts. If a new account number is issued, request the utility transfer the old account balance to the new account before applying OHEP benefits. 3.7 55-Day Holds OHEP customers who are facing termination of utility service due to non-payment may be granted a 55-day hold on their electric account. This temporary protection ensures that customers who have applied for energy assistance are not disconnected while their application is pending. Purpose- The 55-day hold allows the Local Administering Agency (LAA) time to process the customer’s OHEP application and determine eligibility, preventing termination when financial assistance may be forthcoming. Eligibility Criteria A customer is eligible for a 55-day hold if: ● They have submitted an OHEP application, and ● Are in termination status with their utility company (i.e., have received a termination notice).

Note: Per Public Service Commission Order 81638, holds should only be granted if the customer applies within 14 days of the issuance of the termination notice. Hold Placement Guidelines

Updated May 2025