Don't Be Left Out in the Cold

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Like it or not Massachusetts has alot of protections for it's citizens especially when it comes to heat & living in the commonwealth. This week we usually see a real push for collections from the utility companies and setting up payment plans & budgets, please for everyones health and safety be patient and work with customer service reps. they're just trying to do their jobs & keep everyone warm & happy. In this challenging economy it's very important to exercise humanity and make sure to keep an eye out for your fellow citizens, especially the elderly, less fortunate or those struggling. I found this article on the Attorney Generals blog. It's a great resource to keep in mind and pass along to friends to keep others in mind.

10/29/2009 - from the official blog of Attorney General Martha Coakley - http://blog.ago.state.ma.us/blog/2009/10/dont-be-left-out-in-the-cold.html

Don’t Be Left Out in the Cold

It is the end of October and already the first flurries of the season have come and gone. With freezing temperatures lurking, don’t be left out in the cold.

Between November 15 and March 15, the Massachusetts Winter Moratorium prevents Massachusetts’ utility companies from shutting off your heating fuel or the service that you need to run your heating system (i.e. a gas furnace with electrical switch.) because of an inability to pay. However, you will still be responsible for payment during this time and charges will continue be applied to your account. The Winter Moratorium applies only to the period of November 15th through March; it does not apply if your service has been shut off prior to November 15th for non-payment.

If you are having trouble paying your utility bills there may be some help out there for you. The AGO’s Public Inquiry & Assistance Center may be able to help mediate in the case of a shut off or to help with a payment plan. You can contact the consumer hotline at (617) 727-8400 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you can prove a financial hardship, have a child less than 12 months of age, someone in the home has a documented serious illness, or everyone in the home is over the age of 65, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities may also be able to take your complaint and provide some assistance. You can contact your local Community Action Program for assistance.