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Customers can get peace of mind with their energy bills by taking advantage of free Senior check-in program

JACKSON, Mich. , March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Michigan's frigid winter has left its mark and for senior customers who may have seen a seasonal increase in their bills this winter, Consumers Energy stands ready to assist by connecting those age 65 and older with energy saving strategies and payment resources to help them pay their heating costs. This month, through March 31, Consumers Energy will be proactively reaching out to select senior citizens with an opportunity to review seniors' accounts and offer personalized payment assistance options to get them back in control of their energy bills.

"We want our customers to know that we are here for them 24/7, in any season," said Lauren Snyder, Consumers Energy's vice president of customer experience. "And that means we're here to help them save energy and save money. Whether it's through our various energy saving programs or through our payment assistance options, we can help our neighbors most in need."

Home heating costs account for about 30 percent of customers' energy bills, with water heaters alone accounting for almost 15 percent. In addition to payment assistance options, Consumers Energy reminds customers there are some simple steps they can take to limit their usage and save even more.

One of the easiest ways to save is by installing a programmable smart thermostat. Doing so could save as much as 20 percent on heating costs. Customers typically save 1 percent to 3 percent for every degree they dial down their thermostat. Plus, customers can save money by installing a programmable or wi-fi thermostat, often at reduced costs through ConsumersEnergyStore.com.

Seniors interested in participating in the Senior Check-in can call 888-535-9280 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Senior Check-ins will connect customers with the various payment assistance resources available that apply to their situation.

As a senior citizen, you qualify for the following assistance:

• Winter Protection: Pay part of your charges through winter months while being protected from a service disconnect during the season.
• Electric Senior Citizen Bill Credits: This income assistance credit is designed to help seniors on fixed incomes.
• The Electric Senior Citizen provision helps you with your electric bill with an added credit of $4 to your bill each month. Qualifying customers must meet age requirements and be the head of the household.
• If you are eligible to receive the Electric Income Assistance credit, you will no longer receive the Electric Senior Citizen credit.

More resources:

• Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency : Local agencies that are located within communities around the state that provide a variety of senior services and activities.
• Elder Law of Michigan: Older adults and people with disabilities can get help paying for the cost of basic needs like food, medicine, healthcare, utilities, housing and taxes.
• If your income is at or below 110% of the federal poverty level, you may qualify for the Home Heating Credit. You may apply for a Home Heating Credit for the 2024 tax year to help pay your energy bill. Even if you live in a rented apartment, mobile home or your income does not require you to file taxes, you can still apply for this credit. The deadline for filing the 2024 Michigan Home Heating Credit Claim MI-1040CR-7 is Sept. 30.

There is additional help available for anyone who needs assistance with their energy bill, no matter your age. Call 2-1-1, a free resource that connects people with nonprofit organizations or visit consumersenergy.com/assistance. 

Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties. We are committed to delivering reliable, clean, and affordable energy to our customers 24/7. 

For more information about Consumers Energy, go to ConsumersEnergy.com.

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SOURCE Consumers Energy