What is the Universal Service Fund (USF)?

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) has created the Universal Service Fund (USF) program to help make electric and natural gas bills more affordable. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the BPU has temporarily expanded the USF program so that moderate income households can take advantage of USF monthly credits and Fresh Start energy debt forgiveness. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) administers the USF program.

What is the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?

The Low Income Household Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps New Jersey households pay for heating costs and certain medically-necessary cooling expenses. Renters who have their heating costs included in their rent may also qualify. Applications for LIHEAP are accepted by New Jersey Department of Community Affairs agencies that have been qualified and awarded a grant. The United States Latino Affairs Initiatives is a qualified agency processing applications for Passaic County. The LIHEAP program shares its application with the USF program.

If you are in Passaic County and you would like to apply for this program, please contact us. (973) 330-9182