Paying utility bills can be a financial challenge, especially for families and individuals facing economic hardship CPS Energy, the electric and gas utility serving San Antonio, recognizes this struggle and offers multiple forms of bill payment assistance for qualified customers This article will explain the various programs available to help pay your CPS Energy bill.
CPS Energy Bill Payment Options
CPS Energy offers several ways to pay your monthly bill. Common options include:
- Online through CPS Energy’s website
- By phone
- Automatic bank draft
- In person at a CPS Energy customer service center
- By mail
- At authorized payment locations like H-E-B, Fiesta, and MoneyGram
CPS Energy does not charge a fee for any of these payment options However, paying by credit card, whether online, by phone, or at a third-party location, does incur a $235 convenience fee.
CPS Energy Customer Assistance Programs
For customers facing financial hardships, CPS Energy has numerous assistance programs to help pay utility bills and avoid service disconnection
Residential Energy Assistance Partnership (REAP)
REAP provides up to $400 in bill payment assistance per year for income-eligible customers. Applicants must live in San Antonio or Bexar County and have a household income at or below 125% of federal poverty guidelines. Seniors, disabled individuals, and families with children under 16 may also qualify.
REAP is administered by the City of San Antonio and Bexar County. Customers can apply online or by phone:
- City of San Antonio: 210-207-7830
- Bexar County: 210-335-3666
CPS Energy contributes $1 million annually to REAP and assists with fundraising, marketing, and administration.
Affordability Discount Program (ADP)
The ADP program provides a monthly discount of up to $84 on electric bills and $50 on gas bills for qualifying limited income families and seniors. Applicants must live within the CPS Energy service area and meet income eligibility guidelines. The ADP application period is October 1 through November 30 each year.
Payment Arrangements and Extensions
CPS Energy will work with customers to set up payment plans for past due balances. Arrangements can spread payments over 3-6 months to help customers catch up. Extensions may also be granted for special circumstances.
Deferred Payment Plans
Qualified seniors and disabled customers can enroll in a deferred payment plan to delay bill due dates by one month during the hot summer months of May through October.
Temporary Hardship Extensions
Customers experiencing a temporary financial setback can request a one-time extension to delay disconnection due to non-payment. Examples include sudden medical expenses, job loss, or death in the family.
Energy Savings Programs
In addition to direct bill assistance, CPS Energy offers programs to help customers reduce energy consumption and lower monthly bills. These include:
- Free weatherization of homes to improve insulation and air sealing
- Energy efficiency rebates and discounts on smart thermostats, shade trees, and other upgrades
- Free LED light bulbs
- Access to low-cost energy audits
- Tips on conservation and ways to reduce energy waste
Other Resources for Utility Bill Assistance
Several other organizations in the San Antonio area offer help with paying utility bills:
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United Way – Runs a helpline referencing various assistance programs at 210-227-4357.
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Salvation Army – Provides limited emergency utility bill aid. Applicants can call 210-352-2000.
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Society of St. Vincent de Paul – Offers utility bills assistance on a limited basis. Call 210-225-7837.
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Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) – Provides free legal advice and representation for low-income families facing utility disconnection.
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San Antonio Housing Authority (SAHA) – Administers the Utility Assistance Program to help public housing residents pay gas and electric bills. Contact SAHA for eligibility requirements.
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Christian Assistance Ministry (CAM) – Christian faith-based organization providing financial assistance for utilities, rent, medications and more. Call 210-223-6648.
Apply for CPS Energy Bill Assistance
If you are struggling to pay your CPS Energy bill, the first step is to contact CPS Energy customer service at 210-353-2222 to discuss options. Let them know you are interested in bill payment assistance programs.
You can also use CPS Energy’s online Residential Billing Issues Form to explain your situation and request information on financial assistance, payment arrangements, or extensions.
CPS Energy wants to keep your lights on and gas flowing. Reach out for help paying your utility bills before they become unmanageable. With the variety of bill payment programs available, you have options to get through tough times.
Step Documentation Requirements
NOTE: You may need some or all of the following.
- Income – Must submit proof of current income for the past 30 days for all household members 18 years of age and older.
- Award Letters – Current year (Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, Disability, Unemployment) or bank statement for last 30 days of intake application
- Current Utility Bill(s) – Provide current bill(s)
- Photo ID(s) for Account holder (Texas ID/Drivers License/Matricular Consular)
- Social Security Number of Account Holder – Last 4 digits only
Step Access and Complete Request
Youll be able to login and check the status of your application or view past applications
Your Bill
Does CPS Energy offer a bill assistance program?
CPS Energy also has multiple bill assistance programs for customers. Customers can visit Payment Options & Customer Assistance on CPS Energy’s website for more information on payment plans and additional utility assistance programs.
How do I pay my CPS Energy Bill?
Customers can Pay by Mail by using the pre-address return envelope included with their energy bill. The mailing address for bill payments is as follows: Customers can Schedule a Callback if they need to speak with an Energy Advisor. For more information, please visit Ways to Pay My CPS Energy Bill on CPS Energy’s website.
How do I get CPS Energy Assistance?
To learn more or get started, visit us at www.cpsenergy.com/assistance or call us at (210) 353-2222. This program allows customers who use electrically-operated medical equipment in their homes additional time to pay their bill. Renew the application with their physician every 12 months to remain on the program.
How do I contact CPS Energy?
If you need assistance with your bill, contact CPS Energy Customer Engagement at 210-353-4483. We also encourage you to call the United Way Helpline at 2-1-1. This toll-free call connects you to a community resource specialist in your area who can put you in touch with local organizations that provide critical services.