DTE - Detroit Edison low income assistance programs.
Detroit Edison customers can receive financial assistance from a variety of programs. Some of the resources are offered and funded by DTE Energy, and others are offered in partnership with the federal government or state of Michigan. You can call the utility company at the number below, or stop by one of the Community Energy Solutions Program offices which are located across Wayne County Michigan.
Government energy assistance for DTE customers
DTE Energy customers who are faced with a disconnection or whose service is currently shut off can apply for The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW). This is a crisis program that may be able to provide emergency financial assistance to people who have used up all other federal government programs like LIHEAP as well as Michigan programs. It serves as a so called program of last resort. It is generally offered by the Salvation Army in Michigan. Call 800.866 8429
A free federal government program which can help people save money is Weatherization. Energy conservation updates can be made for those Detroit Edison customers who meet the household income guidelines as established by the federal government. Weatherization services offered include weather stripping, caulking, and floor and attic insulation. Your local Community Action Agency will be the place to apply at for this program.
If Detroit Edison has turned off your power, then the State Emergency Relief Program is offered year round. It can assist low to moderate income households that have received a shut-off notice. The Department of Human Services (DHS) offices across Wayne County administer this service for the low income, elderly, unemployed and others. You will need to call their Energy Assistance Hotline at 800.292.5650, and help is available to anyone, even if you do not receive social services.
A tax refund or credit can be received from the state of Michigan Home Heating Credit (HHC). Qualified low income customers can receive funds directly from the Michigan Department of Treasury to apply toward their heating bills. Income Eligibility Guidelines are in place that need to be met by applicants. The Accounting Aid Society, which can be reached at 866.673.0873, can help people apply.
As noted, the federal LIHEAP grant program operates in Michigan as well. Thousands of DTE customers will normally benefit from this every year. A focus is on the very low income and elderly in the metropolitan area. While the application period usually starts in October or November, there may be assistance paid out year round. Many income guidelines are in place, and LIHEAP is often for DTE Energy customers who are in or close to poverty levels. Read more on applying for Home Heating Credit LIHEAP in Michigan.
Get help with utility bills from DTE Energy resources
Individuals with a serious medical condition/emergency can have a shut off due to non-payment of an energy bills delayed by Detroit Edison. The disconnection can be postponed for up to 21 days. Proof of the medical emergency is needed, and that can include a notice from a doctor or notice from a government health official stating that a possible shut off of their service will aggravate an existing medical emergency or create a life threatening condition. This can also sometimes benefit seniors and the disabled that reside in Detroit. 800.477.4747.
Detroit Edison Shut Off Protection Plan – A dedicated customer care representative may be able to help eligible customers reduce their past due balances on their heating and electric bills by providing payment plan options, discounts, and referrals to private or government agencies for bill payment assistance. Regardless of your income, the Shut-Off Protection Plan may be available to you.
It can provide customers of all income levels with year-round protection from shut off if payments are maintained, and the payment can even be an agreed upon payment plan made between you and DTE Energy. Manage your energy use by setting up a monthly payment plan. The monthly payment plan that will be put into effect is usually calculated based on the past due balance on your account as well as your projected future energy bills. 800.477.4747.
Residential Income Assistance Credit - Low income Detroit Edison customers may qualify for up to a $6 per month credit on their account. Dial 800.477.4747 for details.
You can apply for help, referrals, or just get information from Community Energy Solutions Program (CESP) offices. These locations and churches can provide information on and applications for DTE Energy programs, or government programs like LIHEAP or weatherization. Locations are across the City if Detroit and Wayne County. Dial 866.554.2653 or stop by a location below.
- Fellowship Chapel, 7707 W. Outer Drive, Detroit, Michigan 48235, phone 313.837.1182
- St. Cecilia Catholic School, 6327 Burlingame, Detroit, MI 48204, call 313.933.9342
- Second Ebenezer Church, 14601 Dequindre, Detroit, Michigan 48203, dial 313.868.0406
- New Destiny, 8100 West Davison, Detroit, MI 48238, telephone number 313.397.9875
- Focus Hope, 1300 Oakman, Detroit, MI 48238, call 313.494.4188
If you do not pay your DTE Energy bill during the winter, then you are protected from a disconnection by the Winter Protection Plan (WPP). State law and regulations protect low-income customers and seniors from shutoff of their bills due to non-payment between Nov. 1 and March 31. If you fall behind during this timeframe then customers will need to pay a budgeted amount towards their bills that consists of a portion of their estimated annual bill plus regular payments on any past-due expenses. From April 1st going forward the amount will reset and customers will need to pay that new amount. Call DTE Energy at 800.477.4747.
Phone number to apply to DTE
As noted, multiple financial assistance programs are offered for struggling customers. Whether it is a payment plan, government grant, re-connection help, or something else, dial 800.477.4747 for information.
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