Call these first
Mid America Assistance Coalition (MAAC)Apply for energy assistance (LIHEAP). Say if you have a shutoff notice. Community Action Agency of Greater Kansas City (CAAGKC)Ask about emergency help with utilities, rent and other bills. Missouri DSS Family Support Division - Liberty Resource CenterApply for SNAP, Medicaid and cash help. 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
EvergyGladstone, North Kansas City, Kansas City (Clay Co.), part of Liberty. State winter shutoff rules apply.Help programs: Financial help options; Evergy Connect walk-in help (Kansas City) Ameren MissouriExcelsior Springs, Kearney, Holt, NE Liberty. State winter shutoff rules apply.Help programs: Dollar More; Keeping Current; Keeping Cool; payment agreements; Medical Hardship extension Platte-Clay Electric CooperativeRural areas. Electric co-op. State winter rules may not apply; ask about its own policy. Natural gas
Spire Missouri (West)Nearly all towns. State winter shutoff rules apply.Help programs: Missouri Customer Charge Waiver Program (apply via LIHEAP/community action agency); Budget Billing; medical emergency program Water
KC Water (City of Kansas City)Kansas City and nearby areas (Claycomo, Oaks, Avondale etc.). City utility. State winter rules may not apply; ask about its own policy.Help programs: KC Water Services Fund; Payment Arrangement Program
Other local help
Food: Harvesters - The Community Food Network3801 Topping Avenue, Kansas City, MO 64129; toll-free 877-353-6639 Seniors: Mid-America Regional Council Area Agency on Aging600 Broadway, Suite 200, Kansas City, MO 64105 Weatherization (lower heating and cooling costs): Community Action Agency of Greater Kansas City Free legal help (eviction, debt): Legal Aid of Western Missouri (Kansas City central office) Health care (sliding fee): Samuel U. Rodgers Health CenterSites in county: Liberty (Rodgers); Excelsior Springs (Swope) Health care (sliding fee): Swope HealthSites in county: Liberty (Rodgers); Excelsior Springs (Swope)
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
Watch for scams. Real help programs never charge a fee to apply, and no real program asks for gift cards, crypto or your login. Need local help now? Dial 211. In crisis, call or text 988.
Bill Help Now is a free guide, not a government agency. Programs decide who qualifies. Found a wrong number? Email help@billhelpnow.com and we'll fix it.