Updated October 11, 2026 · 5-minute read
Got a shutoff notice? What to do today
A shutoff notice is scary, but it's usually not the end. Most utilities would rather set up a plan than turn you off. Here's what to do, in order.
Do these today
- Find the shutoff date and the amount needed to stop it.
- Call your utility, using the number on your bill, and ask for a payment plan.
- Ask about medical and weather protections.
- Apply for crisis help: call 211 or 1-866-674-6327.
- Still stuck? Contact your state's utility commission.
1. Read the notice closely
Look for three things: the date they can shut you off, how much you must pay to stop it (often less than the full balance), and the phone number to call. Write them down. Don't throw the notice away, because assistance programs often ask to see it.
2. Call your utility, today
Call the number printed on your bill. Ask for:
- A payment plan that spreads the past-due amount over several months
- A delay while you apply for assistance
- Their own hardship or discount program (many utilities have one)
- Budget billing, which evens out your bill so winter months don't spike
Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they agreed to.
3. Ask about protections
Many states have rules that delay or stop shutoffs in certain cases. These can include:
- Medical protection: a delay if a doctor certifies that someone in your home has a serious health condition or needs powered medical equipment
- Weather protection: limits on shutoffs during very cold or very hot weather
- Extra protections for older adults, people with disabilities, or homes with young children, in some states
Rules are different in every state. Look up yours on the state shutoff rules list, or ask the utility: "Do I qualify for any shutoff protections?"
4. Apply for crisis help
LIHEAP crisis assistance is built for this exact situation and often moves faster than regular aid. Call 1-866-674-6327 or dial 211 to find where to apply. Local charities, churches and Salvation Army offices sometimes help with utility bills too. 211 can point you to them. Full steps: How to apply for LIHEAP.
5. If the utility won't work with you
Every state has a public utility commission (sometimes called a public service commission) that handles complaints about electric and gas companies. Filing a complaint is free and can pause a shutoff in some states. Find yours on our state pages: California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania.
Is it a scam?
Scammers pretend to be the utility and threaten to cut you off within the hour unless you pay right away. Real utilities send written notice first and don't demand gift cards, crypto, payment apps or wire transfers. If you get a call like this, hang up and call the number on your bill. Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Already shut off?
Use the same steps. Call the utility and ask what it takes to reconnect, whether a payment plan can cover it, and whether any reconnection fee or deposit can be waived or spread out. Tell assistance programs your service is off. That usually makes it a crisis case.
Want it all on paper?
The Hard Month Kit has printable call scripts, a call log, a hardship letter template, a 30-day cash plan and a bill priority worksheet.
We sell these. They never change the advice above. How we make money.
Sources
- USA.gov: Help with energy bills (utility disconnection)
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse: state disconnection policies
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse: National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR)
- FTC: Report fraud
Checked October 11, 2026. Programs change their rules. Confirm with the program before you rely on a date or amount. Found something wrong? Email help@billhelpnow.com.