More residential Avista customers than ever before can qualify for a lower natural gas bill every month. On October 1, 2024, new income limits for the company’s My Energy Discount program took effect.
“We’re excited to expand ongoing bill discounts to more people,” said Kelsey Solberg, Senior Energy Program Manager at Avista. “Even if someone didn’t qualify last year, they may now.”
Although nearly 11,000 Oregon customers are currently participating in My Energy Discount, Avista estimates thousands more qualify but have yet to sign up.
Eligibility is based on household size and income. Limits increased across all of Avista’s Oregon service territory. For example, a single person can now earn up to $36,800 a year and qualify. A household of four can now earn up to $70,790 a year and qualify.
“Applying takes just a few minutes, and there’s no paperwork needed,” said Solberg. “People don’t have to make appointments anymore, either. Just fill out an online application, call Avista or visit a local community action agency.”
Avista encourages customers who’ve never thought they could qualify for bill assistance or who’ve never considered it before to look at My Energy Discount.
“So many people who qualify don’t know they can get help,” said Solberg. “College students, seniors, young families and people who’ve generally been excluded from assistance in the past are now able to access relief with My Energy Discount.”
Avista suggests enrolling now, before winter arrives. Once approved, participants will keep their discount for two years before having to apply again.
“Everyone who qualifies for My Energy Discount can get help,” said Solberg. “If you or someone you know could benefit from a lower natural gas bill, don’t wait to see if you qualify. Sign up now.”
See household size and income guidelines, learn more and apply, at myavista.com/myenergydiscountOR or call Avista at (800) 227-9187. Local community action agencies can also assist customers with enrollment.