Avoid Utility Disconnection: 63 Day Exemption In Texas If You Have A Critical Medical Need

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Avoid Utility Disconnection: 63 Day Exemption In Texas If You Have A Critical Medical Need

If you live in Texas and have a critical medical condition, it can be difficult to avoid utility disconnection. The Public Utility Commission of Texas regulates the states utility companies and helps you resolve consumer complaints. However, there are some steps that you can take if you find yourself on the verge of losing your utilities. 

This article will explain how someone who has a disability can be exempt from having their lights cut off for 63 days. 

Let’s first talk about the Public Utility Commission of Texas because they play an important role in helping you keep the lights on if you cannot pay your bill.

What Is The Public Utility Commission of Texas?

This is state agency that regulates the business of water, sewer, and utility companies in Texas.

The public utility commission of Texas helps you by enforcing compliance when utility companies violate state regulations. One way they do this is through their complaint system where consumers can file a formal complaint against the company if appropriate. They will also work with that utility company and other agencies to help resolve any complaints or issues that arise from violations and provide information on how to avoid problems in the future.

To file a complaint against an electricity company or learn more about the PUCT you can visit their website or call them at 888.782.8477.

What The Public Utility Commission Of Texas Say About Utility Disconnections For Those With a Critical Medical Need

According to the PUCT, your utility company cannot authorize a disconnection of your electricity for non payment prior to the disconnection date if have informed the company about a critical medical condition that you or someone in the household has.

To receive this exemption you will need to work with both your utility company and your primary care doctor. The utility company will need your doctor to contact them and provide a written statement explaining that you have a medical condition that requires you to have electricity.

At this point, your utility company will work with you on a deferred payment plan to give you time to come up with them money needed to pay your past due utility bill.

If you visit the PUCT “Know Your Rights” page of their website you will see a list of scenarios where a utility company can and cannot disconnect

63 Day Exemption From Disconnection In Texas If You Have A Critical Medical Need

Once your doctor has contacted your utility company and provided a written statement the Public Utility Commission of Texas states that you will be exempt from having your utilities disconnected for 63 days.

Editor’s note: I contacted the PUCT to verify the 63 day exemption and according to an agent the PUCT can only enforce a 63 day exemption from disconnection on deregulated energy companies. You can think of these as the commercial utility companies.  It cannot force a city utility company into a 63 day disconnection exemption. That being said, the PUCT agent states that many city owned utility companies often comply with the 63 day exemption.  You can contact PUCT for additional questions at 888.782.8477. 

You can apply for the same exemption after these 63 days expires as long as you have fulfilled your obligations of the deferred payment plan that you agreed to with your utility company.

Written Statement From Your Doctor Needed To Avoid Disconnection Of Utilities (Texas Chronic Condition or Critical Care Form)

Your doctor will need to provide a written statement to your utility company to help you avoid having your lights turned off if you are a critically ill customer. The name of the form that your doctor will complete is called the application for Chronic Condition or Critical Care. This is a form that you and your doctor will need to complete. 

It is best to have your doctor complete the Chronic Condition or Critical Care Form, however, if you cannot get this form to your doctor here is a potential alternative.

I messaged a utility company here in Houston and asked about the documents needed to avoid a utility disconnection and here was there answer. 

According to this utility company you would need to request a “physicians letterhead” with the following details:

  • Doctors signature
  • The office phone number
  • Your utility company account number
  • A statement explaining that you will become seriously ill if your electricity is disconnected.

They also went on to say the moment you know you will not be able to pay your utility bill, you will need to contact your utility company and tell them about your financial situation and your medical needs. At this point your utility company will give you 3 days (depends on your electricity company) to provide them with a written statement from your doctor. 

What To Do If You Cannot Pay Your Utility Bill, But You Have A Critical Illness That Requires You To Have Electricity

If you cannot pay your bill, but your medical condition requires you to have electricity here are steps you can take to avoid disconnection.

  1. Contact your utility company as soon as possible to let them know that you will not be able to pay your bill on time and let them know that you have a medical condition that requires you to have electricity. Depending on your utility company they will likely give you 3 days to provide them with some form of a written statement from your doctor. Ask for an email or fax number that your doctor can send their written statement before ending your call with the utility company. You will need that for the next step.
  2. Follow up with your doctor to get a written statement explaining your medical condition and the reasoning you need your electricity. Try to have your doctor complete the Chronic Condition or Critical Care form. If you cannot get them to complete this form, simply request a written statement with the details discussed in the previous section. 
  3. Inform your utility company that your doctor will be emailing or faxing the statement. This could buy you time in the event your doctor stalls in sending their written statement. 
  4. Once the utility company has received your doctor’s written statement they will like talk to you about a deferred payment plan. Do everything you can to fulfill your obligations of the deferred payment plan. In addition you could also receive a 63 day exemption from having your utilities disconnected. 
  5. Come up with ways to pay the utility bill. This can include asking for help from family or finding a utility assistance program. In the next section I will provide you with a list of places to go for utility assistance in Houston.

Where To Find Utility Assistance In Houston

When it comes to utility assistance you will need to search for nonprofits that provide financial assistance to your zip code. The agencies have funded that is specifically set aside for residents who live in certain zip codes.

To find these Houston nonprofits who help with the light bill you can use the table below. Simply type in your zip code and you will see a listing of agencies that help your area.

Agency AddressPhoneType of AssistanceArea/Zip Code servedHours
Aids Healthcare Foundation Website7400 Fannin Street, Houston, 77054
Ste 1118

Clinics in Med Center, 3rd Ward, Katy		+1 713-799-8994, +1 713-524-8700

Only offers assistance to clients with HIV and AIDS. Offers housing, mental health, substance abuse, assistance applying for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, Texas Women's Health PlanHarris CountyM-F 930 to 4pm. Walk ins welcome but priority is given to those with appointments.
Baytown Resource & AssistaWebsitence Center WebP.O. Box 1116, Baytown, TX 77522-1116

281-422-5683 for an interviewBasic needs include, food, utilities, rent, transportation, vital documents, prescriptions, hygiene products, diapers and baby wipes. Our work readiness program provides assistance with transportation, clothing and other work-related items. By appointment only.77520, 77521, 77523
, 77562, 77580		Monday through Friday
Avenue 360 Web2150 West 18th Street713.426.0027Housing referrals, medical support, Rent, Mental Health. Rental assistance will be available for up to three (3) months for qualified clients. Previously, assistance covered up to six (6) months.DetailsAvenue 360 clients or individuals w HIV/AIDsM - F: 8 to 5pm
Bethel's Heavenly HandsWeb 12525 Fondren Rd. Suite M

Houston, TX 77035		713.729.6477Food, Largest Houston Food Bank partner, Clothing, Job training , Senior Commodity Program, DetailsHarris CountyMON + THURS + FRI: 8AM - 2PM

TUES + WED | 8AM-12PM

SAT: CLOSED

SUN: CLOSED
Braes Interfaith WebsiteMinistriesWeb4300 W. Bellfort713.723.2671 Food, ClothingSW: 77025, 77035, 77045, 77051, 77053, 77054, 77071, 77085, 77096M-F 730a - 530p
Brentwood Community Foundation Website="http://brentwoodfoundation.org/our-programs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Web
13033 1/2 Landmark Street713.852.2551Resources for those with HIV/AIDS. Rent, Mortgage, Food, Utilities, housing referrals.
The BCF Program provides support services to people living with HIV/AIDS as they strive to
achieve self-sufficiency and improve the quality of their lives.
Provides the following programs:

Rental assistance

Mortgage assistance

Utilities assistance (electric, gas, and water)

Transitional housing

Assistance to find permanent housing.​		Those with HIV/AIDS in Houston area. Services are provided to clients living in Fort Bend, Liberty, Montgomery, Chambers, Waller,
and Harris counties. Clients are referred to BCF by an HIV service provider, a case manager, or
by individual contacts.		M-F 8am to 5pm
Catholic Charities Main Office Websitehref="https://catholiccharities.org/our-services/strengthening-families/basic-needs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Web2900 Louisiana

Other Locations: Houston Locations

713.874.6590 or 713.526.4611Offers housing and utility assistance programs that include help with utility bills, rental assistance in Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Galveston County, support for court-ordered evictions within the City of Houston, housing assistance for veterans in Fort Bend County, rental support for individuals living with HIV, and services for those currently experiencing homelessness, along with connections to additional community resources.77003, 77004, 77011, 77012, 77013, 77020, 77021, 77023, 77029, 77030, 77054, 77547M-F 730a - 530p
Chinese Community CenterWeb9800 Town Park713.271.6100Utilities (must have cut off notice), Weatherization, Adult day program, Gold Card Application Assistance, Income Tax Help, SNAP, Free Legal Clinic, Citizenship Application Assistance, 77024, 77036, 77042, 77056, 77057, 77063, 77072, 77074, 77077, 77079, 77081, 77082, 77083, 77094, 77099, 77450, 77494, 77477, Tues 9am - 12pm
Christian Community CenterWeb3434 Branard713.871.9741Rent, Utilities, Food, Clothing, Vocational Training, Jobnet Program W-SW: 77002, 77003, 77004, 77005, 77006, 77007, 77010, 77011, 77012, 77019, 77020, 77021, 77023, 77025, 77026, 77027, 77030, 77046, 77056, 77057, 77081, 77096, 77098, 77401M-F 10a - 2pm Sat 9a - 12p (food and clothing only)
City Fellowship Church Christian Rescue Mission Web3220 Hadley713.659.7750Rent, Utilities, Food Harris CountyTues-F: 10a -12p
City of Houston Water Aid To Elderly Residents Program4200 Leeland Houston, TX 77023
Mail application here. 		713.371.1400Assistance paying water bill. $100 every six months. Low income seniors (60+) residing in Houston are the priority. Individuals w disabilities and low income families are also encourage to apply. WebWater Assistance Application: Web
City Wide ClubWebMultiple locations713.752.2582Rent, Utilities, Food, Employment Referrals, Housing and Shelter Recovery Program - room and board for families, seniors, homeless faced w physical, mental substance abuse challenges, Project Warm-Up helps with electric heaters and utilities, Project Cool Down helps w fans and shelters in summer Harris County and surrounding areasTues-Th 10a-1p
Covenant House Texas Web1111 Lovett Blvd713.523.2231Crisis shelter, Transitional shelter for youth ages 18 to 20. Medical and clothing provided. Job placement for young adults. Houston areaM-F 8a to 5p
Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) Web713.957.4357 or 211 Utilities Assistance for low income seniors (60+) and/or have documented disability expected to last 12 monthsHarris CountyM-F 8a-5p
Cypress Area Ministries Web11202 Huffmeister281.955.7684Rent, utilities, food, clothing. CAM may pay a portion of the past due balance on a utility bill. The client is required to pay the balance of the amount past due, or have a pledge for that amount, prior to CAM’s paying the pledged amount.77065, 77095, 77429, 77433M-F 10a-2p
Fair Haven Methodist Church Web1330 Gessner 713.476.4346 or (713) 468-3276Food77024, 77027, 77041, (Carverdale only), 77043, 77055, 77056, 77079, 77080,M-F 10a-2p
First Baptist ChurchWeb8009 Long Point713.554.8801 or (281) 229-9166Rent, mortgage, utilities, food, prescriptionsNW: Harris CountyM-Th 730a-11a Walk Ins only
Gulf Coast Community Services Web9320 Kirby Dr713.393.4700Rent, utilities, food, clothing, Q cards, eyewear vouchersSE: Harris CountyM-F 8a-5p
Harris County Housing Authority Housing Choice Voucher Web8933 Interchange Dr. 713.578.2100Housing Choice Vouchers distributed during open enrollmentHarris CountyM-F 8a-5p
Harris County Social Services Web9418 Jense Drive713.696.7900Rent, Utilities, Bereavement, Veteran servicesHarris CountyM-F 8a-5p
Hester HouseWeb2020 Solo713.274.1394Hot meals/seniors summer/youth campNW - 5th WardM-F 8a-5p
Houston Volunteers of America Web4808 Yale Street (Independence Heights Location)

731 West Davis Conroe, TX		713.460.0781 or 817.529.7300Assistance applying for SNAP, Medicaid, FASFA, Tax Season Assistance, Employment Placement Assistance Program for Healthcare jobs, Deaf and Blind Services, Day Habilitation Center for those with special needs, Residential Group Homes for children and adults with special needs, Substance Abuse Treatment, Housing for seniors and those with a disability, Homeless Veterans Help Houston and surrounding areas M-F 8a - 5p
Housing Authority of City of HoustonWeb2640 Fountain View Dr713.260.0600Housing Choice Vouchers and Public HousingM-F 8a-5p *By appointment.
Humble Area Ministries Web1302 First Street281.446.3663Food, rent, utilities,
Employment services, Clothing, Prescription Assistance, Birth Certificate and ID Assistance, Assistance with Eyeglasses		77336, 77345, 77347, 77372, 77338, 77346, 77357, 77396, 77339, 77347, 77365, 77532, 7 days a week/24 hours a day answering machine, leave message
Interfaith Caring Ministries Web151 Park Ave, League City281.332.3881Rent, utilities, minor home repair, and food for seniors (55+)Clear Creek ISD, Friendswood ISD, Clear Lake, Webster, 77034, 77058, 77059, 77062, 77089, 77546, 77565, 77573, 77586, 77598 M-F 830a-430p *by appointment
Immaculate Conception Catholic ChurchWeb 7250 Harrisburgh 713.921.1261Food 77011, 77012Thurs 930a - 1130m
Katy Christian Social Ministries Web 5011 East 5th St Katy, TX281.391.9623Rent, mortgage, utilities, food, clothing77084, 77094, 77406, 77423, 77441, 77449, 77450, 77464, 77476, 77485, 77493, 77494

M-Th 830a-12p 1230p -5p
Larkin Community Center Web5410 Larkin 713.869.9143Rent and Utility assistance to seniors and families with childrenM - F 8am to 5pm
LINC Houston Community Services Website1504 Johnson Street 713-426-2451
LINC Houston is a faith-based nonprofit that focuses on developing local leaders in underserved communities rather than providing direct financial assistance. They work by identifying individuals with potential, training them, and supporting them as they launch and lead their own community efforts—such as church-based outreach programs, youth mentorship, food distributions, and neighborhood support initiatives. Their goal is long-term community impact by empowering people within the community to create and sustain their own solutions, including disaster response efforts and grassroots ministry programs.Mon, Wed, Fri: 9 to 3pm
Lone Star Legal Aid Web1415 Fannin 713.652.0077 or 713.652.5911Legal services to low income individuals Harris, Ft Bend and Montgomery CountyM-F 830a - 1230p
MANNA - Ministry Assistance of the Near Northwest Allicance Web1806 W. 43rd Street346.335.2950 or 713.682.7556Utility, Gas, Rent, Clothing, Food, Assistance with SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, CHIP, 77007, 77008, 77009, 77018, 77022, 77037, 77040, 77076, 77088, 77091, 77092, M: 8 to 11, Tues and Thurs: 915 to 1115am.
Memorial Area MinistriesWeb1625 Blalock English 713.574.7533 Spanish 713.574.7536Rent, water, gas, medical assistance, prescriptions, transportation, clothing, Rapid Re-Housing, 77008, 77009, 77018, 77022, 77024, 77037, 77039, 77040, 77041, 77043, 77055, 77076, 77079, 77080, 77088, 77091, 77092, M-F 9a - 4p. Call between 9a - 12p M-F to set up an appointment.
My Brother's Keeper Outreach Center Web12713 A Bissonnet 281.489.9933Financial Assistance, Rent, Utilities, Food Pantry,
Mayors Office for People with Disabilities Web1475 West Gray832.394.0814 mopdmail@houstontx.govAdvocacy ServicesCity of Houston M-F 8a - 5p
North Channel Assistance MiWeb nistries 13837 Bonham713.453.8028Food, food stamp application help, Medicaid application help, clothing, 77013, 77015, 77029, 77044, 77049, 77078, 77530, M-F 8a-2p
Northwest Assistance Ministries Web15555 Kuykendahl281.583.5600Rent, mortgage, gas, water, prescriptions, gas vouchers, dental and medical, 77014, 77032, 77038, 77050, 77060, 77064, 77066, 77067, 77068, 77069, 77070, 77073, 77086, 77090, 77373, 77379, 77388, 77389, Tues 1p-4p Call for an appointment.
Operation ID Web5100 Travis Street713.620.6476Texas Identification CardHarris CountyTues & Thurs 9a-1130a. You will need a referral/voucher from an agency that Operation ID partners with.
Pasadena Community MinistriesWeb2301 South Houston 713.477.4336Rent, utilities, food, clothing, Pasadena, Deer Park, Tues 9a - 12p. Th 1p-4p
Riceville Baptist ChurchWeb11231 Gessner 713.774.4880Food, clothing, financial assistance, prison ministry 1st Wed of Month, 6p. Call for appointments.
Salvation ArmyWeb1500 Austin Street713.752.0677Rent, Food, Clothing, Utilities (water only), Senior Housing (62+) Harris CountyM-Th 830a - 430p
Saras HouseWeb711 Perla 713.475.1480Shelter, meals, clothing (women & children) Pasadena
Baker Ripley Web3838 Aberdeen Way 77025713-590-2327Case management, care giver support, dementia adult day program, utilities, must be under 150% FPL, preferences to elderly, disabled, clients w children under 5 yrs, no deposits or reconnection fees, 77016, 77020, 77026, 77028, 77004, 77021, 77033, 77051, 77087, 77003, 77011, 77012, 77020, 77023, 77034, 77058, 77059, 77062, 77075, 77089, 77502, 77504, 77506, 77571, 77598, Call for appointment
Senior Jobs Program (AARP)Web12727 Featherwood Dr281.922.9952Jobs, Harris CountyM-F 930a - 230p
Spring-Woodlands Ministries Web810 E. Louetta Suite A-E281.353.4480Food, clothing77373, 77338, 77389, 77379, 77380, 77381, 77382, 77386, 77388, M 1p-3p, W 9a-1130a, Thur 1p-3p
Society of St. Stephen Web1062 Fairmont Parkway281.487.1774Rent, utilities, food, 77502, 77503, 77505, 77506, 77507T-F New clients: 10a-1p
Society of St Vincent de PaulWeb2403 Holcombe Blvd713.741.8234 ext 101Food, Clothing, Rent, UtilityCity of Houston Zip Codes OnlyM -F 9am - 5pm
Southeast Area Ministries SEAMWeb2102 Houston Blvd 713.944.0093Rent, Utilities, Food, Clothing, Ongoing Senior assistance, Christmas assistance program, Prescription, Medical Supply assistanceSE: 77017, 77034, 77061, 77075, 77087, 77089, 77504, 77587, M-Th 10am - 1:30pm
St Bernadette Church Web15500 El Camino Real281.486.0337Food, Clothes, Rent, Utilities, Clear Lake: 77058, 77059, 77062, 77598, Tues: 930 to 1130am Thurs: 930 to 1130 Wed: Appt only
St. Cecilia ChurchWeb11720 Joan of Arc Drive 713.468.1185Rent, Utilities, Food, NW: 77024, 77043, 77055M-Th: 9am through 12pm
St Christopher Catholic ChurchWeb8150 Park Place713.645.6614 FoodSE: 77012, 77017, 77061, Sat: 930 to 11am
St. Hyacinth Catholic Church Web2921 Center St, Deer Park281.479.4298Rent, Utilities, FoodDeer Park: 77536M - F: 930 to 12pm 1pm to 430pm
St. John Vianney Social Services Web625 Nottingham Oaks281.497.4434Utilities, Food, Clothing, W: 77043, 77055 (Food & Clothing only) 77077, 77079 (Food, Clothing, Utilities ) M-F: 830 to 530pm
St. Joseph Catholic ChurchWeb1505 Kane Street713.222.8903Rent, Utilities, Food, 77007, 77008, 77009, M-T: 9am to 12pm 130 to 330pm
St Mary Magdalene Church 527 South Houston Ave, Humble281.540.1907Rent, Utilities, Food, NE: 77338, East of Lee Rd, 77346, (Only apartment complexes) M, W, F only. 930 to 1145am - 1st 12 people.
St Pious Catholic Church Web824 Main - Pasadena 713.473.9484Food, Rent, Utilities, Immigrant Legal Assistance, Free Health Screenings, Pasadena: 77501, 77507, 77536, 77547, 77587, Tues & Thurs: 10am to 1230pm
Target Hunger Service CenterWeb2814 Quitman 713.226.4953Emergency Food, Food Pantries, Monthly Food Fairs, Senior Home Delivery Program, Senior Day Site Program 77015, 77016, 77020, 77026, 77028, 77078, M-F: 9am to 5pm
The Bridge Over Troubled WatersWeb3811 Allen-Genoa Rd713.473.2801Emergency Shelter for Domestic Abuse VictimsHarris County
The House of AmosWeb8030 Boone Rd281.495.9061Food, Citizenship Classes, Lunches every Saturday, Free immunizations to uninsured children. M-Th: 9am to 12pm Sat: 10am to 12pm
Tomball Emergency Assistance Ministries (TEAM) Web300 W Main Street Tomball, TX 77375281.351.6700Utilities, Gas vouchers, Clothing, Food, Medical and Dental vouchers, Temporary Shelter Tomball zip codes 77375, 77377 or you live within Tomball school district. Tues and Thurs: 10am to 1pm. Application must be completed in person.
The Houston Food Bank Web535 Portwall832.369.9390Emergency Food Pantry, Help applying for SNAP, TANF, CHIP, MedicaidM-F: 8am to 5pm Sat: Telephone hotline only 8am to 4pm
United Way Web211Referrals for Food, Shelter, Rent, Utilities, Housing, Shelters, Substance AbuseHarris County
Wesley Community CenterWeb1410 Lee Street713.223.8131 ext 245Rent, Utilities, Food, Financial Education, Employment coaching, Help applying for Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, Harris CountyFriday Starts at 8am. Appointments Only. No appointment needed for Food.
West Houston Assistance MinistriesWeb10501 Meadowglen Lane713.977.9942Mortgage, Food, Utilities, Clothing, Employment Assistance, Bus Passes for job related trips, Work Clothes, 77042, 77057, 77063, 77072, 77077, 77082, M - F: 10am - 1pm
Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church Web3826 Wheeler713.747.7101Rent, Mortgage, Utilities, Food, Women's Housing (Badge Bush). Visit there site they help in plenty of ways. SE: 77770M-Th: 9 - 1230pm F: 9-1130am *Appointment only
Windsor Village Social ServicesWeb12041 1/2 Post Oak Rd713.551.8792Rent, Mortgage, Utilities, Food, Harris County and Ft Bend County Appointment only Monday 8am to 11am Food: T-W 9am to 11am. Th 1030am to 1230pm
Pearland Neighborhood CenterWeb 2335 N Texas Ave, Pearland, TX 77581281-485-1987, info@pnctexas.comRent, Utilities, Gas, Food and Baby Pantry, Bread Pantry, Santa's Helpers Program, School Supply Vouchers, Emergency Assistance, Finanical Stability Course, GED Scholarships, Disaster ReliefBrazoria CountyM - F 8 to 5
East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry WWebeb435 Stafford Run Road
Stafford, Texas 77477-5639 		281 261-1006Food, rent, utilities, resale shop, Christmas and Thanksgiving Meals, Backpacks for kids, East Fort Bend - 77053, 77459, 77477, 77478, 77479, 77489, 77545, 77583281 261-1006
Epiphany Community Health Outreach Services (ECHOS) WWebeb9600 S. Gessner, Bldg. E
Houston, Texas 77071 		713 270-0369 Gold Card, Medcaid, SNAP, Food, ESL, Computer Literacy, Voter Registration, Child Immunizations, Vision Screening, Domestic Abuse Counseling and support groups, Serves Greater Houston713 270-0369
Emergency Aid Coalition (EAC) WWebeb5401 Fannin Street
Houston, Texas 77004-6808 		(713) 522-5903 Food Pantry + Clothing (M-F 8:30am), Lunch Program (M - F + Sunday 11 am & 1pm, Backpacks (register in March) Serves Greater Houston (713) 522-5903
Interfaith of the Woodlands WebWeb4242 Interfaith Way
The Woodlands, Texas 77381		(832) 615-8219Rent, mortgage, utilities, prescription drugs, food, clothing, emergency shelter, Christmas gifts for kids, primary care, dental, womens health, senior transportation, senior grocery delivery, Woodlands - 77375, 77380, 77381, 77382, 77384, 77385, 77386, 77389, (832) 615-8219
My Brother's Keeper Outreach Center (not COH Program) WWebeb 12713A Bissonnet
Houston, TX 77099 		(281) 498-9933Rent, utilities, Food, School supplies, Thanksgiving / Christmas Meal Program, Christmas gifts for kids, Easter baskets, 77031, 77035, 77036, 77042, 77056, 77071, 77072, 77074, 77081, 77082, 77083, 77085, 77096, 77099, 77401, 77477, 77478, (281) 498-9933
St. Vincent's House - Galveston Web2-2817 Alfreda Houston Place
Galveston, Texas 77550 		(409) 763-8521 Vision + Dental clinic, Mental Health Counseling, Speech, Physical Occupational Therapy, Rent, Utilities, Case Management, Transportation, Galveston - 77591, 77568, 77590, 77563, 77554, 77551, 77550, 77555, 77552, 77553, (409) 763-8521
Hero Houston WWebeb12335 Kingsride, Box 230, Houston, TX 77024(713) 932-3996Offers services to seniors in the Memorial and Spring Branch area. Transportation to medical appointments, light handyman work, help filling out documents and senior service referrals. Memorial and Spring Branch area. 77024 77043 77055 77079 77080Monday - Friday 8 to 5
Public Utility commission of Texas (PUC) Web888.782.8477 or 512.936.7500Will not turn of utilities or electricity if you have a need for medical equipment or you are on life support
COVID-19 Electricity Relief Program web866.454.8387 or 888.782.8477The Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Program (CERP) helps consumers who are having trouble paying bills due to job loss or other related hardship.Who is eligible for the Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Plan?
Residential customers that qualify for unemployment or that are low income qualify for the Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Plan. Once approved for the Texas COVID-19 Electricity Relief Program, you will remain on the program for up to six months.

During that time, your electricity provider cannot disconnect your electricity for non-payment.
Fort Bend County WWeb eb 301 Jackson Street, Richmond, TX 77469281.238.2273 or 281.633.7795Rent and utility assistanceServes Fort Bend County and zip codes:77406, 77417, 77420, 77430, 77435, 77441, 77444, 77451, 77459, 77461, 77464
77469, 77471, 77476
77478, 77477, 77479
77481, 77485, 77489, 77496, 77494, 77407, 77498, 77545
Open normal business hours 8 to 5 pm
M.I. Lewis Social Service Center WebsiteWebsite245 FM 517 E Dickinson, TX 77539281.534.2043 or Care@MIlewisctr.orgRent and utility assistance, food assistance, help for seniors Dickinson ISD residents. Non Dickinson ISD depending on funding Tues - Fri 8:30 to 1:00 pm
Raise Up Families Website2500 Tanglewilde St, Houston, TX 77063713-973-8083 info@raiseupfamilies.orgDetails Details Houston and Harris County

Help Understanding Your Rights As A Texas Utility Customer

The first place you can go to learn more about your utility customer rights is the Public Utility Commission of Texas “Know Your Rights” page. This is an easy to use resource for understanding when a Texas electricity company can and cannot turn off your utilities.

You can also contact local legal aid agencies to learn about you rights. If you live in Houston a few agencies you can contact are:

  • Lone Star Legal Aid
  • Houston Apartment Association

Our guided titled Free Legal Advice In Houston: Low Cost Lawyers To Help You With Legal Questions offers contact information to the two organizations above and even more nonprofit law firms who can help you.

Conclusion

If you are a Texas citizen with a critical medical condition that requires you to have electricity you have a special set of rights that temporarily prevents a utility company from disconnecting your services. This exemption from having your services disconnected can last for up to 63 days.

To receive this exemption you will need to obtain a written statement (Texas Chronic Condition or Critical Care  Form) from your doctor and then give this to your utility company.

To learn more about your options regarding an upcoming disconnection you should first contact your utility company. The Texas Public Utility Commission of Texas can also help you understand your rights if you have a critical illness . You can contact them via their website or by phone at 888.782.8477 or 512.936.7120.

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