AEP Ohio Expands Bill Assistance Through Neighbor to Neighbor Program

GAHANNA, Ohio, June 21, 2022 – AEP Ohio has expanded current bill assistance available through its Neighbor to Neighbor program and is now accepting applications.

Current funding available through the program is $2.7 million. This special expanded assistance opportunity will provide eligible AEP Ohio customers in need with a grant applied directly to their bill.

Neighbor to Neighbor assistance is usually available once per program year on a first-come, first-served basis, however, due to recent severe weather events, a new application window has been opened to expand assistance available to twice per year. We have also increased the maximum credit available from $350 to $500. Eligible account holders may apply beginning June 20, 2022 through July 29, 2022, while funds are available.

“We recognize the impacts of the recent severe weather were extremely difficult for many families and individuals, and some continue to face significant economic challenges,” said Jon Williams, managing director of customer experience and distribution technology for AEP Ohio. “We’re committed to supporting our customers who are struggling to make ends meet through this expanded program.”

Since AEP Ohio launched the Neighbor to Neighbor Program, managed by Dollar Energy Fund, in May 2009, more than $16.2 million in assistance has been granted to more than 67,600 Ohio households.

To apply, customers may contact one of the AEP Ohio Neighbor to Neighbor Program’s network of almost 100 Ohio community-based organizations, or go to Neighbor to Neighbor and apply through the online application: https://www.hardshiptools.org/MyApp/

To qualify, an applicant’s total gross household income must be at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.

For example, a family of four earning up to $83,250 per year is income-eligible for the program. AEP Ohio has waived the behind on payment terms, and allowed for both current and past due balances to be applicable. Full eligibility guidelines and application instructions can be found at: AEPOhio.com/N2N

“Dollar Energy Fund is proud to maintain its support for AEP Ohio and its efforts to serve families who find themselves in a temporary financial crisis,” said Chad Quinn, chief executive officer of Dollar Energy Fund. “The AEP Ohio Neighbor to Neighbor Program has become a very useful resource for thousands of households across Ohio, enabling them to maintain utility service when blindsided by unexpected circumstances.”