HOUSTON – Financial relief arrives for Houston-area families struggling with utility bills through BakerRipley’s Utility Assistance Program, but slots for the program were filled fast.
Still, you can prepare now to sign up for the next program application period which will take place this coming August.
Here’s everything you need to know about this vital community resource and how to apply for the next session.
Program Basics
- Available Aid: Up to $1,800 annually per eligible household
- Coverage Area: Harris, Brazoria, and Galveston Counties
- Utilities Covered: Electricity, natural gas, and propane bills
- Funding Source: Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
Eligibility Requirements
- Location: Must reside in Harris, Brazoria, or Galveston County
- Income Level: Household must be at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Priority Groups:
- Senior citizens (60+)
- Disabled individuals
- Families with children under 18
- Households with high energy burden
- Citizenship: Must provide proof of citizenship or legal residency for all household members
- Active Account: Must have an active account with a utility provider
Next Application Window
- Opening Date: August 4, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM
- Available Slots: 5,000 applications
- Important Note: Previous application period filled within hours
How to Apply
Online Application Steps:
- Visit BakerRipley.org
- Navigate to “Programs and Services”
- Select “Taxes, Utilities and Weatherization”
- Click “Utility Assistance”
- Select “Apply”
Alternative Application Method:
- Call the Utility Assistance Hotline: 713-590-2327
- Visit your local library if you need computer access
Required Documentation
Prepare these documents now to ensure a complete application:
- Proof of identity for all household members (Texas Driver’s License, Texas ID, US Passport, Military ID, or Permanent Resident Card)
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency (US Birth Certificate, US Passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card)
- Proof of income for the past 30 days (all household members 18+)
- Current utility bills (electricity, gas, and/or propane)
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Proof of residence in service area
Important Tips for Success
- Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis
- Incomplete applications will not be reviewed
- Maximum file size for uploaded documents: 4MB per document
- Avoid submitting duplicate applications
- Processing time: Approximately six weeks
- Previous 2025 applicants do not need to reapply
Program Impact
The program serves as a crucial lifeline for local families facing financial hardship. “That does depend on the family’s income and size, so that ranges from 1,200 to 1,800 dollars annually that can be received,” explains program officials.
Need Help?
- Utility Assistance Hotline: 713-590-2327
- United Way Helpline: 211 or 713-957-4357
- Visit BakerRipley’s website for additional resources
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
