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Help paying bills in Carter County, Missouri

Who to call for help with utility bills, rent, food and more in Carter County, with numbers checked against each agency's own site.

Call these first

South Central Missouri Community Action Agency (SCMCAA)Apply for energy assistance (LIHEAP). Say if you have a shutoff notice.
573-325-4255
South Central Missouri Community Action Agency (SCMCAA)Ask about emergency help with utilities, rent and other bills.
(573) 443-3500
Missouri DSS Family Support Division - Van Buren Resource CenterApply for SNAP, Medicaid and cash help.
855-373-4636

What's open right now

Missouri energy assistance: regular help runs October through May, and winter crisis help (ECIP, up to $800) runs November through May while funds last. Apply at dss.mo.gov, through your local agency below, or call 855-373-4636. The Cold Weather Rule runs November 1 to March 31.

Offices usually ask for photo ID, your latest bill or shutoff notice, and proof of household income. Missouri's list: documents DSS may ask for.

Your utility companies

Check the company name on your bill. Many counties have more than one.

Electric

Ozark Border Electric CooperativeVan Buren, Ellsinore, Grandin and county. Electric co-op. State winter rules may not apply; ask about its own policy.
1-800-392-0567

Other local help

Food: Southeast Missouri Food Bank600 State Highway H, Sikeston, MO 63801; toll-free 855-703-3663
573-471-1818 Website
Seniors: Aging Matters69 Doctors Park, Suite B, Cape Girardeau, MO 63703
573-335-3331 Website
Weatherization (lower heating and cooling costs): South Central Missouri Community Action Agency
573-323-0270 Website
Free legal help (eviction, debt): Legal Services of Southern Missouri (Sikeston office)
800-444-4863 Website
Health care (sliding fee): Missouri Highlands Health CareSites in county: Van Buren
573-323-4253 Website

Checked October 25, 2026. Sources: each agency's own website, state community action list. Programs change, so confirm with the agency.

Got a shutoff notice?

Call your utility today, before the shutoff date. Ask for a payment plan and any winter or medical protections, and apply for energy help at the same time.

Make my shutoff plan

More free help

Which bills should I pay first?Four questions, 60 seconds, your own plan.
Take the quiz → The free bill appTrack bills, get call scripts and hardship letters, and plan $50-a-week dinners. No account.
Open the app → All Missouri programsState energy help, shutoff rules, rent and food programs.
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