Cold Weather Rule May Offer Assistance to Homeowners And Renters

If you’re concerned about paying your heating bills this winter, or are facing disconnection, you may be eligible to receive protection under Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule. In order to get protection under the Cold Weather Rule (CWR) to prevent your heat from being turned off, you need to contact your utility to apply for CWR protection. Utilities, such as natural gas and electricity, must follow the Cold Weather Rule under Minnesota law.

Additionally:

  • Cold Weather Rule is only effective October 15 through April 15 each year.
  • You must make and keep a payment plan with your utility. The payments do not have to be the same amount each month.
  • If you can’t make your CWR payments, call your utility immediately to make a new CWR payment plan. If you do not make payments, your service may be shut off.
  • Renters are qualified to be covered under CWR if you pay your own utility bill and the utility service affects the primary heat source of your residence.
  • CWR has a Third Party Notice option if you need help reading or understanding notices from your utility. If you need help applying for the CWR, you may arrange for another person (i.e. friend or family member) to get a copy of any disconnection notices or other important information, at the same time you receive it. To sign up, call your utility for a form which will be filled out and signed by both you and the person you want notified.

For more information, call the Energy Assistance Hotline at 1-800-657-3710.

(originally posted on http://www.masin4rep.org)
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