PSEGLI Works With Customers Unable To Pay Bills Since COVID-19

UNIONDALE, NY — PSEG Long Island customers who are behind in their payments can apply for state assistance.

The utility company is urging those who are struggling, to take advantage of the limited-time program that helps eligible households with up to $10,000 to cover outstanding balances.

The state announced last month the "regular arrears supplement" to assist low-income households who have been unable to keep paying their electric bills during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Throughout the pandemic, we have remained committed to assisting customers during these difficult times, and this is a huge opportunity that we want to make sure they know about," Rick Walden, vice president of Customer Services, PSEG Long Island, said in a statement. "The unusual circumstances have prompted the state to provide a level of utility relief we have not seen before, and it will only last until the existing funds are allocated."

Starting on Oct. 20, PSEG Long Island field representatives will go door-to-door with past due balances for customers, who can choose to make a payment or plan. But PSEG LI said residential customers will not have power shut for non-payment at this time.

All PSEG Long Island employees must carry a company ID and present it when requested.

In March 2020, PSEG Long Island suspended all service terminations for non-payment and continued this protection throughout the governor's COVID-19 State of Emergency, which has now ended.

Residential and certain small business customers may be entitled to additional protections if the State of Emergency caused a change in financial circumstances, including non-termination of electric service for non-payment until Dec. 21, 2021, or a deferred payment agreement with no down payment, late fees or penalties.

To receive these protections, customers must call PSEG Long Island at 1-800-490-0025 and specify a change in financial circumstances because of the COVID-19 pandemic.