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Can they shut me off in Michigan?
Short answer · Winter Protection Plan · November 1 – March 31
From November 1 through March 31, Michigan's Winter Protection Plan protects seniors 65+ and income-eligible customers of MPSC-regulated gas and electric utilities from shutoff. Low-income customers pay 7% of their estimated annual bill each month and must show they applied for heating help.
Who is protected
Customers age 65 or older; or households at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or receiving MDHHS cash assistance, SSI, SNAP or Medicaid.
What to do in the next 48 hours
- Call your utility and ask to enroll in the Winter Protection Plan.
- Have proof of age or income ready.
- Apply for State Emergency Relief or other heating help and keep proof you applied.
- If someone has a medical emergency, ask for the medical certification form. A shutoff can be postponed up to 21 days at a time.
- Still stuck? Contact the Michigan Public Service Commission (free).
Frequently asked questions
Can my utility shut off my heat in Michigan during winter?
From November 1 through March 31, Michigan's Winter Protection Plan protects seniors 65+ and income-eligible customers of MPSC-regulated gas and electric utilities from shutoff. Low-income customers pay 7% of their estimated annual bill each month and must show they applied for heating help.
Who is protected in Michigan?
Customers age 65 or older; or households at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or receiving MDHHS cash assistance, SSI, SNAP or Medicaid.
What should I do first?
Call your utility and ask to enroll in the Winter Protection Plan.
Official sources
- MPSC: Home Energy Assistance Information for Customers
- MPSC: Shutoff of Utility Service Issue Brief (PDF)
Last verified: . This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm with your utility or state commission.
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