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Savings on Energy and Utlitiies
Date:
December 8, 2006
Author: David Smidt, SeniorDiscounts.com

It looks like we could be in for a cold winter this year and
many of us are already feeling the strain of higher energy costs when heating our
homes. This is a topic SeniorDiscounts has talked about before and wanted to touch
on again as winter settles in.

Heating costs continue to rise as the price for energy increases
across the country. Double digit rate increases will not be uncommon this year and
some areas could be facing as much as a 20-30% increase. This added cost can be
a great burden, but there are some programs to help older adults with the cost of
higher energy bills; you just need to know where to look.

The best places to begin your search for energy discounts are
with your local government and the companies that supply your energy needs.

Many city and local government agencies have programs for older
adults in need of assistance for paying their home energy costs. These programs
will have different requirements for qualification depending on the area of the
country. Some require that one be of a certain age or have a certain income level,
while others may require that one meets both requirements.

If there is an age requirement for participation, expect it
to begin anywhere from 60 to 65 years of age. SeniorDiscounts has yet to see an
age-based utility discount program begin before the 60 year mark.

If there is an income requirement, there may be no age specification
to receive a discount. Programs based on income levels will take into account the
total monthly income and the number of people of the household. These programs will
usually count any Social Security or disability benefits as household income.

To locate government based programs, start with your city’s
web site. Most cities will have a department for senior affairs with relevant contact
information, while larger cities may also post the senior home energy programs on
the site along with any application forms or contact numbers. If the information
can not be found on the web site, call the local city information line and ask for
its senior or utilities department.

Contact the local home energy supplier as well. Many energy
providers are required to provide discounts on energy usage to low income or senior
households. Start by visiting the provider’s web site for information. Often the
information is difficult to track down online, so the simplest way may be to call
the local provider directly and ask if it provides any assistance for fixed income
senior households.

The discounts for both local government and energy providers
can vary. City program discounts may vary depending upon on the amount of income
per household as well as previous energy usage. Energy providers will typically
give you a discount for a percentage of your total heating bill, or will have a
maximum credit they will give you per month.

Have a warm and safe winter this year.

© SeniorDiscounts

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