Checked October 13, 2026
Help paying bills in Delaware
Behind on your electric, gas or rent in Delaware? Here are the real programs, who to call, and what to do first. All free.
Do these 3 things first
- Call your utility before the due date. Ask for a payment plan and any low-income discount or hardship program.
- Apply for LIHEAP (Delaware Energy Assistance Program). Start at the state program page, or call 1-866-674-6327 (free) to find where to apply.
- Dial 2-1-1 for local help with rent, food and bills.
Help with electric and gas bills
LIHEAP (Delaware Energy Assistance Program)
Run by the Delaware Division of Social Services. See the state's utility assistance page for how to apply. If you have a shutoff notice or are out of fuel, say so and ask for crisis help.
Got a shutoff notice?
From November 15 to March 31, Delaware utilities can't shut off service on days the forecast is 32°F or below. A licensed Delaware doctor can certify that a shutoff would harm someone's health to prevent it. If your utility won't work with you, contact the state utility commission. These rules usually cover companies the state regulates, not every city utility or co-op.
If your utility won't help: Delaware Public Service Commission · 1-800-282-8574
Behind on rent
Rent help in Delaware is mostly run by counties, cities and local agencies. Dial 2-1-1 for emergency rent help near you, and ask your local community action agency (often the same office that handles energy help). If you get court papers, don't ignore them: call legal aid right away.
Food, health care and phone
Food Supplement Program (SNAP), Medicaid and cash help
Apply online or call 1-800-372-2022.
Lifeline (phone or internet discount)
A federal discount on one phone or internet plan if you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or meet income rules.
Lower the bills you pay every month
A 60-second check of your phone, car insurance, bank fees and credit. Free options first.
Make a plan for the next few months
Once the emergency is handled, see where your money goes and which bills to pay from each paycheck. The Budget Starter is free. The Debt Freedom Planner adds your debt-free date and a spending tracker.
Dealing with it right now? The Hard Month Kit ($9) has printable call scripts, a hardship letter and a bill priority worksheet.
We sell the planner. It never changes the advice on this page. How we make money.
Watch out for scams
Real help programs never charge a fee to apply. Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers or crypto, and never give your login or PIN to anyone who calls you. Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Sources
- Delaware LIHEAP (Delaware Energy Assistance Program)
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse: state disconnect policies
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse: cold weather rules
- USDA SNAP state directory
- Delaware Public Service Commission
Program details change. Confirm with the program before you rely on a date or amount.
Want this for later, or know someone who needs it? Save it on Pinterest or share this page. No account needed to use the site.