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Utility Assistance

ATTENTION THAW CUSTOMERS:

Attention: Due to high demand for energy bill payment assistance, we are temporarily not accepting new applications at this time. We understand how important this support is for Michigan families and are working diligently to reopen applications soon. We encourage you to revisit our website for updates on our online application reopening.
 
THAW will not be receiving missing documents In-person from December 22, 2025-January 2, 2026, due to the holiday season.
 
In observance of the Christmas and New Year Holidays THAW will be closed December 24th, 25th, 31st and January 1st. THAW will reopen for normal business hours and resume In-person assistance on January 5, 2026.
 
Thank you for your understanding and we wish you a safe and joyful holiday season.
 
For additional assistance, you may speak with a Utility Assistance Center Specialist by calling 1-800-866-8429.

 

For information about other available energy assistance programs in your area, please contact 2-1-1 or visit www.mi211.org.

Please note: THAW is also not currently accepting applications for water bill payment assistance.

 

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue our mission to keep homes healthy, safe and warm.

 

Note: THAW is not able to accept walk-in or in-person appointments on Fridays.

 

 

 

Please read all information before applying for assistance. Applying for assistance through the MEAP program has changed and eligibility made easier. Changes include no longer needing an approved State Emergency Relief decision letter to qualify.

Learn More

 

Note: THAW is not able to accept walk-in or in-person appointments on Fridays.

In addition to calling our toll-free number, THAW customers can connect with a representative via text.  Text “THAW” to 1-800-866-THAW (8429).

Representatives are available Monday-Friday 8AM – 4:45PM.

INFORMATIONAL FLYER

Do you need energy assistance?

THAW works with agencies across Michigan to provide emergency energy and utility help to households facing financial difficulties. THAW has multiple utility assistance programs available which are open to income-eligible Michigan residents. However, before seeking THAW assistance, we encourage you to contact your utility provider to see what options may be available to you.

Grants to households are approved at the discretion of THAW staff and our agency partners. Find out about Individual Programs below.

For utility bill help, call THAW at 800-866-THAW (8429)

Assistance Programs

MEAP

THAW administers the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP). MEAP provides direct bill payment assistance for heat and electricity for low-income Michigan residents. Families must complete a two-step process to qualify for MEAP funds.

Brightmoor Energy & Water Assistance Program

Residents of Brightmoor who meet eligibility requirements can receive energy and water bill assistance through the Brightmoor Energy & Water Assistance Program.

This program is made possible by a generous grant from the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation.

MI Water (Water Assistance Through Efficiency and Repairs) Program

We are excited and grateful to partner with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and MI-HOPE to implement THAW’s MI Water (Michigan Water Assistance Through Efficiency and Repairs) program. This program supports healthy housing for financially insecure Michigan residents by maintaining water services. MI Water has four components and is being implemented in two phases.

iHeal

Health care providers, community agencies, DTE Energy and Consumers Energy work with THAW to provide utility assistance for customers with chronic health problems.