This plan protects senior and low-income customers of Commission-regulated natural gas and electric companies, rural electric cooperatives and alternative electric suppliers from electric or natural gas service shut-off and high utility payments between December 1 and March 31. Persons qualify for the plan if they meet any of the following criteria:

• are age 65 or older, or
• receive Michigan Family Independence Agency cash assistance, or
• receive Food Stamps or Medicaid, or
• have a household income at or below 150% of poverty level.

Winter Protection allows eligible low income customers to make monthly payments of at least 7% of their estimated annual bill, along with a portion of any past-due amount, December through March, and avoid shut-off during that time even if their bills are higher. Eligible senior citizens participating in Winter Protection are not required to make specific monthly payments between December 1 and March 31, but are encouraged to do so to avoid higher bills when the protection period ends. At the end of the protection period, both low-income and senior citizens taking part in the plan must pay off any money owed in installments between April and November.

To apply, contact your natural gas or electric utility company or alternative electric supplier.