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Reducing Your Energy Costs
Date: January 5, 2006
Author: David Smidt, SeniorDiscounts.com

Winter is upon us and many of us are feeling the strain of higher
energy costs when heating our homes. This added cost can be a great burden when coupled
with greater gas prices for our automobiles and increasing prices on many consumer goods,
not to mention the cost of prescription drugs. But there are some programs to help older
adults with the cost of higher energy bills; you just need to know where to look.

Some of the best places to begin are with your local government and
the company which supplies your energy.

Many local government agencies have programs for older adults in need
of assistant for paying their home energy costs. These programs may have different
requirements for qualification. Some require that one be of a certain age or income level,
while others may require both. If there is an age requirement for participation, expect it
to begin anywhere from 60 to 65 years of age. If there is an income requirement, there may
be no age specification to receive a discount. Programs will look at the number of people
in your household as well as the total monthly income which will include any Social
Security benefits.

To locate these government programs, start with your city’s web site.
Most cities will have a department for senior affairs with relevant contact information.
Many of the larger cities will also post the senior home energy programs on the site along
with any application forms or contact numbers. You can also call the local city information
line located in the government pages of your phone book.

Try contacting your local home energy supplier as well. Many energy
providers are required to provide discounts on energy usage to low income households as well
as seniors. You can start by visiting their web sites, but often the information is difficult
to track down. The simplest way is to call your 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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