Keeping Your Cool And Maybe A Little Cash In Garland and Dallas

Help with High Electric Bills for Low-Income Residents in Garland and Dallas, TX

Struggling with a high electric bill, like $350 for one month, can be daunting for low-income households in Garland and Dallas, Texas. With Texas summers driving up cooling costs, turning off the AC might seem like the only option. Fortunately, there are practical steps and assistance programs to help manage your electricity costs and keep your home comfortable. Below, we outline energy-saving tips and financial resources specific to Garland and Dallas.

Immediate Ways to Lower Your Electric Bill

Try these strategies to reduce electricity usage and lower your bills:

1. Use Box Fans Effectively

  • Place box fans in windows to pull in cooler air at night or early morning.
  • Create cross-ventilation with one fan drawing air in and another pushing hot air out.
  • Avoid using fans during the hottest parts of the day when outdoor air is warmer.

2. Reduce Air Conditioning Costs

  • Set your thermostat to 78°F or higher to save energy. Each degree below 78°F significantly increases costs.
  • Use a programmable thermostat to limit AC use when you’re away.
  • Block sunlight with curtains, blinds, or reflective window film to keep your home cooler.

3. Additional Energy-Saving Tips

  • Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use to eliminate "phantom" energy drain.
  • Switch to LED bulbs, which use less electricity than traditional bulbs.
  • Wash clothes in cold water and air-dry them when possible.
  • Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping to prevent cool air from escaping.

4. Explore Cheaper Electric Plans

  • Garland and Dallas are in Texas’s deregulated energy market, so you can shop for lower rates at PowerToChoose.org.
  • Look for fixed-rate or prepaid plans, or ask your provider about "time-of-use" plans with lower rates during off-peak hours (e.g., nights and weekends).
  • Contact your provider to check for low-income discounts, especially if you’re enrolled in SNAP or Medicaid. Senate Bill 1976 allows providers to offer benefits to qualifying low-income customers.
    • (https://www.electricchoice.com/blog/lite-up-texas-assistance/)

Financial Assistance for Low-Income Households in Garland and Dallas

Several programs and organizations in Garland and Dallas can help with electric bills or improve home energy efficiency:

1. Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

What it is: A state program administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) to help low-income households pay utility bills and cover heating/cooling unit repairs during crises.

(https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/dchhs/human-services/ceap.php)(https://www.tdhca.texas.gov/comprehensive-energy-assistance-program-ceap)

Eligibility: Households with income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (e.g., $21,870/year for one person or $45,000 for a family of four in 2025). Priority for elderly, disabled, or households with children under six.

How it helps: Covers up to 6–8 of your highest energy bills per year for non-vulnerable households, or all bills for vulnerable households.

(https://bkvenergy.com/support/payment-assistance-programs/)

How to apply: Contact Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) for Dallas County residents, including Garland:

  • Phone: (214) 819-1848
  • Location: 2377 N Stemmons Fwy, Dallas, TX 75207
  • Website: Search "DCHHS CEAP" or visit TDHCA Help for Texans and enter "Dallas" for providers.
  • Requirements: Proof of income, ID, recent utility bill, and proof of citizenship or legal residency.

2. City of Garland Customer Assistance Program (CAP)

What it is: A partnership between the City of Garland and local agencies to provide utility bill assistance for residents facing financial hardship.

(https://www.garlandtx.gov/650/Utility-Customer-Programs-Rights)

Eligibility: Garland residents with demonstrated financial need.

How to apply: Contact Garland Utility Customer Service:

3. Dallas Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center

What it is: Offers emergency utility assistance through its Social Services & Support Program for Dallas residents.

(https://quickelectricity.com/dallas-low-income-assistance-programs/)

Eligibility: Low-income Dallas residents facing financial hardship.

How to apply: Contact the center:

  • Phone: (214) 670-8418
  • Location: 2922 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Dallas, TX 75215
  • Requirements: Proof of income, ID, and utility bill. Call for intake details.

4. United Way Dallas Rental Assistance Collaborative

What it is: Provides rent and utility assistance for Dallas residents, especially those impacted by financial hardship or the COVID-19 pandemic.

(https://quickelectricity.com/dallas-low-income-assistance-programs/)

Eligibility: Dallas residents with financial need, subject to available funds.

How to apply: Contact United Way of Metropolitan Dallas:

  • Phone: (214) 978-0000
  • Website: Search "United Way Dallas Rental Assistance" for current programs.

5. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

What it is: A state program offering free home improvements (e.g., insulation, weatherstripping, window upgrades) to reduce energy costs.

(https://quickelectricity.com/dallas-low-income-assistance-programs/)(https://www.usa.gov/help-with-energy-bills)

Eligibility: Households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level (e.g., $60,000/year for a family of four in 2025). Priority for households with children under six, seniors, or disabled individuals.

How to apply: Contact DCHHS at (214) 819-1848 or visit TDHCA Help for Texans, select "Weatherization," and enter "Dallas."

6. 211 Texas

Dial 211 or visit 211Texas.org to connect with local agencies in Garland and Dallas offering utility assistance, cooling programs, or other support.

(https://pogoenergy.com/support/energy-assistance/)

Additional Tips

  • Payment Plans: Contact your electric provider for a deferred payment plan to spread out a high bill like $350.78. Providers must offer plans during extreme weather emergencies or disasters.
    • (https://www.constellation.com/solutions/for-your-home/solutions-by-state/texas-energy/electricity-bill-assistance.html)
  • Check for Billing Errors: Review your bill for errors or request a meter test if usage seems unusually high. Contact the Public Utility Commission at (888) 782-8477 if you have disputes.
    • (https://texaslawhelp.org/article/help-with-utilities)
  • Cooling Centers: Garland and Dallas libraries or community centers offer cooling spaces if you turn off your AC. Contact Garland Parks and Recreation at (972) 205-2750 or Dallas Parks at (214) 670-4100 for locations.
  • Medical Needs: If someone in your household requires cooling for medical reasons, inform assistance programs to prioritize your application.

Next Steps

  1. Call DCHHS at (214) 819-1848 for CEAP or Garland Utility Customer Service at (972) 205-2671 for CAP to apply for utility assistance. Have your bill, income details, and ID ready.
  2. Visit PowerToChoose.org to compare affordable electric plans.
  3. Implement energy-saving measures like box fans and weatherstripping to reduce future bills.
  4. Dial 211 for additional local resources in Garland or Dallas.

Stay cool and financially secure with these resources tailored for Garland and Dallas residents!

Note: This information is current as of July 24, 2025. Contact organizations directly for the latest eligibility and application details.

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