MERRILLVILLE, Ind. (WOWO): Customers with NIPSCO struggling to pay their utility bills are encouraged to apply for assistance. 

NIPSCO says its partnered with state agencies and other organizations to help. The applications will be accepted beginning Monday.

According to NIPSCO, the programs include:

· Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Program: LIHEAP support is available to households falling within 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines. Between December 1 and March 15, Indiana natural gas utilities do not disconnect service to customers enrolled in LIHEAP who are behind on their bills. 

· NIPSCO Customer Assistance for Residential Energy (CARE) Discount Program: The NIPSCO CARE Discount Program is designed to provide further bill reductions to LIHEAP-eligible customers. Once enrolled in LIHEAP, customers are automatically enrolled in the program. 

·NIPSCO Hardship Program: For customers just outside the federal poverty guidelines for LIHEAP, the NIPSCO Hardship Program offers up to $400 in gas bill assistance to households between 151-200 percent of the federal poverty level. 

Eligibility is based on income and family size. More information and a listing of agencies that help administer assistance programs can be found at www.NIPSCO.com/PaymentAssistance. 

The following information is usually required when applying for LIHEAP at an agency; however, be sure to contact the agency for the complete list of documentation you will need to provide: 

· Indiana picture ID 
· Social Security cards for all household members 
· NIPSCO bill 
· Proof of residency 
· Proof of income 

Energy and Money Saving Programs 
Improving a home's energy efficiency can make a big difference on utility bills. All NIPSCO customers have access to a wide range of programs designed to help manage energy usage, and in turn bills. A full list of programs and tips to help manage energy use can be found at NIPSCO.com/SaveEnergy.